What is Emergency Department - Same day emergency care (EDSDEC)
EDSDEC is an area within the Emergency Department (ED) for patients who need some further assessment, tests, or are waiting for results. The aim is to provide the care you need and, where possible, help you return home without having to stay in hospital overnight.
EDSDEC has a waiting area and two private consultation rooms. A member of the clinical team will assess you, arrange any tests you may need, discuss your results, and provide treatment if required.
Why EDSDEC?
We recognise that some patients may need to stay in the Emergency Department for longer while they have further tests, treatment or assessment. This extra time can sometimes help patients avoid an unnecessary hospital stay or being moved to another department.
EDSDEC provides a dedicated and more comfortable area for these patients while they wait. It also helps free up space in the main Emergency Department for patients who are more seriously unwell and helps reduce overcrowding in the main waiting room.
Where is EDSDEC?
EDSDEC is located within the Major Assessment Area and remains part of the Emergency Department (ED). Your care continues to be overseen by the ED team, with the ED consultant in charge having overall responsibility for the area.
Who decides I should be here?
A nurse or doctor will decide if EDSDEC is the right place for you to continue your care. While you are there, the Emergency Department (ED) team will continue to check on you, arrange any tests you need and provide treatment.
If needed, you may also be seen by another specialist hospital team, such as the surgical or medical team, for further assessment and advice.
What if I become more unwell?
If you become more unwell while you are in EDSDEC, the team will make sure you receive the care and treatment you need. If necessary, you will be moved to a cubicle in the Emergency Department so you can be more closely monitored and treated.
What if I need something?
A nurse is based in EDSDEC and is available to support you during your time there. If you have any questions, concerns or need anything to make you more comfortable, please speak to them.
Can anyone stay with me?
Space in EDSDEC is limited, so at busy times we may need to ask relatives or friends to wait elsewhere. If you would like someone with you when you are being assessed by a doctor, please let a member of staff know and they can join you where possible.
What if I need admitting to hospital?
If you need to be admitted to hospital, you may stay in EDSDEC while you wait for a bed on a ward to become available. If the wait is longer than expected, or if you become more unwell, we will move you to a cubicle in the Emergency Department as soon as possible.