Emergency Medicine Same Day Emergency Care (EM SDEC) – Adults (185kB pdf)
Welcome to the Emergency Medicine Same Day Emergency Care (EM SDEC) Unit
We understand that coming to hospital can sometimes feel worrying or stressful. This leaflet is designed to help you understand what to expect during your visit and how we will care for you. Our aim is to make your stay as comfortable and efficient as possible.
If you have any further questions after reading this leaflet, please contact a member of the EM SDEC team using the details provided at the end.
What is EM SDEC?
The Emergency Medicine Same Day Emergency Care (EM SDEC) Unit is a short-stay area for patients who require additional clinical care but may not need to be admitted to hospital overnight.
You may be cared for in EM SDEC if you need:
- A period of observation
- Specialist investigations or test results
- Further treatment or review
Our aim is to complete your assessment, treatment, and discharge within eight hours of your arrival. The EM SDEC team will look after you throughout your time in the unit, from when you arrive until you are ready to leave.
During Your EM SDEC Journey
When you arrive, the EM SDEC team will already know you are coming. Please take a seat in the waiting area until your name is called.
While you wait, a healthcare assistant may check your observations, this includes your blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and oxygen levels. These checks help us monitor your condition closely and ensure your safety.
During your time in EM SDEC, our team will:
- Provide you with ongoing care and treatment
- Keep you informed about your care plan and any test results
- Answer any questions you may have about your treatment or next steps
If at any point you feel your condition is getting worse or you become concerned, please tell a member of staff straight away.
How We Prioritise Patients
Patients in EM SDEC are seen according to their clinical need, not the time they arrived. This means that those who are more seriously unwell will be seen first by an Emergency Department clinician, unless you have been referred directly to another hospital specialty.
We understand that waiting can be difficult, and this may sometimes mean a longer wait for patients with less urgent conditions. We aim to keep you updated throughout your stay. Please speak to a member of staff at any time if you have questions or concerns.
While You Wait
Eating and Drinking
There is access to fresh water and vending machines in the waiting area. Between 08:00 and 19:00, seven days a week, our housekeeping team will visit the unit to offer hot drinks and biscuits.
Nearby facilities include:
- Marks & Spencer’s (adjacent to the waiting area)
- Opening hours: Monday–Friday 07:30–20:00, Saturday–Sunday & Bank Holidays 10:00–18:30
- Costa Coffee (adjacent to the waiting area)
- Opening hours: Monday–Saturday 07:30–20:00, Sunday 09:00–18:00
- The Alexandra Restaurant (lower ground floor)
- Opening hours: Monday–Friday 07:00–18:30, Saturday–Sunday & Bank Holidays 08:00–15:00
- Additional vending machines are available at the entrance to The Alexandra Restaurant on the lower ground floor.
If you wish to visit any of these outlets, please inform a member of staff before leaving the area so that you don’t miss your consultation when called.
If you are unsure whether you are Nil by Mouth (no food, drink, or anything by mouth), please check with one of our staff before eating or drinking.
After Your Visit
When your assessment and treatment in EM SDEC is complete, you may:
- Be admitted to hospital for further care
- Be discharged home with advice ,and if required some medication
- Be transferred to another care provider for ongoing support
Before you leave, the clinical team will explain your next steps and any after-care instructions. If you are discharged, a copy of your discharge summary will be sent electronically to your registered GP, so that they are aware of your treatment and any follow-up arrangements.
Please note: If medication is prescribed upon discharge, standard NHS prescription charges will apply unless you are exempt.
Contacting the Team
If you have any questions about your care during your stay, please speak to a member of the nursing or reception team. To share any feedback about your experience, please contact our Patient Advice & Liaison Service (PALS):
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01279 827211