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Facts of Accident and emergency departments
The following clarifies some widely held misunderstandings about A&E departments:
Accident and Emergency is an alternative to your GP.
FALSE: It is not appropriate to go to accident and emergency as an alternative to your GP.
Calling 999 for an ambulance gets you to the top of the accident and emergency queue.
FALSE: Patients are seen based on medical need, not who gets to the hospital first.
All injuries need x-rays.
FALSE: The doctor or nurse will be able to assess whether an x-ray is needed or not. In many cases x-rays are not needed.
Accident and Emergency doctors are more expert at dealing with medical problems than your GP.
FALSE: Your GP is an expert in general medicine. Accident and Emergency doctors are specialists in accidents and emergencies.
Taking pain relief before being seen by a doctor will 'mask' the symptoms of the injury.
FALSE: One of the first things that is often done by doctors is to give you a simple painkiller like paracetamol. It is quite safe to take these before you get medical advice. Taking pain relief to treat minor injuries is the best way to make you feel better quickly and is an effective treatment. Always follow the instructions on the packet.
