Keep our emergency department for those who need it
Unless your condition is life threatening, please don’t just turn up or walk in the emergency department (A&E).
Please think pharmacist, GP and NHS 111 online first and keep A&E for those who need it most.
If you do turn up, and you don’t need to be there – you may be redirected to a more appropriate service for your needs.
The Great North Major Trauma Centre and Emergency Department (A&E) at the Royal Victoria Infirmary is a purpose-built facility, for critically ill and injured patients.
Our specially trained paediatric emergency nurse practitioners provide services from the children’s emergency department, part of the main emergency department. Younger patients have their own waiting area and treatment rooms but receive support and care from the main department medical team as necessary.
Patients with eye injuries should attend the eye emergency department at the Royal Victoria Infirmary.
These combined services make our emergency department one of the largest in the north of England.
Emergency department (A&E)
For serious or life threatening illness and injuries
The emergency department provides immediate care for people with signs of serious and life threatening injuries and illness, such as:
- Chest pain
- Breathing difficulties
- Severe bleeding that cannot be stopped
- Severe allergic reactions
- Severe burns or scald
What if I just turn up at A&E?
We advise everyone, who does not need emergency care, to visit NHS 111 online for advice.
If you do turn up, and you don’t need to be there – you may be redirected to a more appropriate service for your needs.