Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC)
Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC)
Patient Information
- Author ID: TJB
- Leaflet Ref: SDEC 001
- Version: 8
- Leaflet title: Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC)
- Date Produced: June 2024
- Expiry Date: June 2026
What are we?
The Same Day Emergency Care, also known as SDEC, provides urgent assessment and treatment for patients who do not necessarily need an overnight stay in hospital.
You may have either been referred by your GP, directly from the Accident and Emergency department; or your visit may be a follow up after a recent hospital attendance.
Our Aim
We aim to assess and treat you on the same day, offering the same investigations and review as an inpatient.
What to expect?
On arrival, your details will be taken by the ward clerk and you will be asked to wait in our comfortable waiting area. If your clinical needs warrant it, we also have a trolley bed area within the unit. Some basic investigations will be carried out, and you will be assessed by a senior nurse.
These may include:
- Routine Observations
- Blood tests
- ECGs
- Chest x-rays
- Scans
Following initial assessments and investigations, a consultant will review you prior to discharge with a treatment plan.
We endeavour to have completed your assessment, investigations and treatment plan within 4 hours; however, some investigations and specialist reviews can take a while longer. We will keep you involved and aware of your plan of care, but please speak to staff if you require an update or further explanation.
We have a review clinic daily, which you may also be asked to attend for follow up care.
We will offer you light refreshments during your stay.
Please ensure you bring any regular medications with you.
On discharge
Once you are ready to leave the unit, we will discuss your plan of care with you, and make you aware of any follow up care if required. We will also send a copy of this information to your GP.
Please inform us as early as possible if you are struggling to access transport home.
Thoughout your visit do not hesitate to ask a member of staff if you have any questions regarding your care.
Current opening hours
Monday to Friday 8am until 9pm
Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays 9am – 5pm.
Telephone 01942 822361
How to find us
We are based in the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary. We have a ramp entrance at the front of the unit, offering easy access. We are based at the front of the hospital next to the bus stop.
Please follow the signs for SDEC.
Who are the SDEC Team?
We are a team of doctors, ANPs, nurses, clinical support workers and other essential hospital support staff.
Please help us by completing a Friends and Family card prior to discharge.