What to expect in medical same day emergency care (MSDEC)
We understand that attending the medical same day emergency care unit (MSDEC) can be daunting. This information will explain what you can expect.
Arrival
Please report to reception or to staff on the unit. You will be booked in and advised where to wait.
Assessment
Your initial assessment is carried out by a nurse. This allows us to understand the best place for you to be seen and some of the tests or investigations you may need.
Investigations
You may need investigations or tests. This may include blood tests, X-rays, an ECG (echo-cardiogram) which checks your heart's rhythm or other scans and tests. Where we can, we will begin these tests as soon as possible.
Review
You will have a medical assessment from a doctor or an advanced nurse practitioner, who will prepare your care plan based on their findings.
In some cases, we may need to investigate a little further and your clinician may need some input from another specialist to help them develop your care plan.
We aim to get you home that same day with a suitable treatment plan in place.
Sometimes, we may need to admit patients from MSDEC to a ward. If this is the case for you, we will make sure the next available bed on the relevant ward will become available to you.
Waiting times
Where possible, we will see all patients in time order. However, at times we may need to prioritise patients according to their clinical needs.
Every effort is made to ensure that you are not kept waiting too long to be seen.
During your visit to the MSDEC unit, there will be periods of waiting. Our aim is to provide you with same day emergency care, allowing you to be assessed, have tests and be treated, without the need to stay in hospital. Please be patient as this can take several hours. Speak to a member of the team if you need any help or assistance while you wait.
Once your care in MSDEC is complete, it is very likely that you will be able to go home.
Visitors
Because of the limited space in the unit, we kindly ask the number of visitors is limited to the main carer, fried or family member of the patient. Please let staff know of any specific requirements that you or your visitor may have.
Next steps
Depending on your care plan, you may need to return for further tests or treatment on another day. Please arrange any follow-up with our staff before you leave
Food and drink
There are water fountains available in the waiting room.
Refreshments are also available from the Rooftop Restaurant (A level) and Costa, Boots and M&S Food in the main entrance (C level). Opening times vary.
Leaving the unit
You may wish to leave the unit for a short time. Please let a member of staff know when you are leaving and make sure we have your correct contact details in case we need to contact you.
If you decide that you do not want to wait to be seen in MSDEC by a healthcare professional, or complete your treatment, please speak to the nurse or doctor in charge.
If your symptoms get worse
If you feel your symptoms are getting worse while you are waiting, please speak to a member of the healthcare or reception team.
Having a chaperone
For some examinations, a healthcare professional will be present to chaperone in addition to the professional performing the procedure.
If you would also like a family member present, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your healthcare professional.
Learning disabilities and Autism
We have a Learning Disabilities and Autism Team who are available if you need support. You can ask a member of staff to contact them for you.
Violence and aggression
Our staff wear body worn cameras. We will not tolerate any form of abuse from patients or relatives. You may be removed from the unit if such behaviour is witnessed. This could result in a warning, police involvement or a ban being served.
Patient information
As part of your care, you should receive information about your appointment, test, operation or anything you need to do when you return home.
If you are not given any information, please speak to the healthcare team looking after you.
This information should not be considered to be a substitute for medical advice from a healthcare professional. You should always check with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your condition or treatment.