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Out-of-Hours Service
This service is for urgent problems that cannot wait until your GP surgery opens (111). It will offer out-of-hours advice and assessment when your GP surgery is closed.
You will be advised how best to care for yourself at home, referred to the most appropriate service for your needs or asked to wait until surgery opening hours.
Minor Injuries Unit - St Mary's Independent Treatment Centre
Staffed mainly by Nurse Practitioners
Useful for minor accidents and illnesses – for example:
- Cuts requiring stitching
- minor wounds
- cuts and grazes
- possible broken bones
- minor head injuries
- insect and animal bites.
They cannot give a second opinion on a condition which has already been seen by a doctor.
Accident and Emergency, Queen Alexandra, Hospital, Cosham
A&E Department
Injuries:
- Wounds needing stitching, burns, broken bones.
- Nosebleeds which won’t stop
- Severe abdominal pains – but often best to seek advice from GP first
Emergency Ambulance 999
Ambulance
When you think that the person’s life may be in danger without immediate treatment.
For example:
- Severe chest pain- particularly tight or crushing chest pain
- Severe breathing difficulties
- Suspected stroke – Face fallen on one side, unable to raise both arms, speech slurred.
- Patient is unconscious or very drowsy
- Overdose
- Major accidents and fractures
- Severe bleeding
In all these case dial 999 immediately
In other cases if you are not sure if an ambulance is needed then you are welcome to phone the surgery for advice
Please do not call an ambulance for minor illnesses or you may delay treatment getting to other people needing immediate help
But do not delay if you think the person’s life may be in danger.