If you have any of the following injuries or symptoms, A&E is not the place to get the care you need.
Here are some of the most common reasons people attend A&E inappropriately. You’ll find information below on how to manage to each of the following issues:
Broken finger
If you have a broken finger bone, and there isn’t an open wound.
Tape or bandage the finger so it cannot move and attend your nearest Minor Injuries Unit (MIU).
Broken lower arm
If you think you have broken your arm, between your elbow and hand, and there isn’t an open wound… Immobilise the arm (keep it as still as possible) and attend your nearest Minor Injuries Unit (MIU).
Cold or sore throat
If you have an infection of the upper airways, such as a cold or sore throat. Most cases can be managed at home with rest and over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol.
If your symptoms are severe or prolonged, contact your local pharmacy.
Cut finger
If you have a cut or laceration to your finger that does not involve the nail, you can manage this at home.
Clean and dress the wound.
If the wound is deep, bleeding heavily, or shows signs of infection, attend your nearest Minor Injuries Unit (MIU).
Diarrhoea and/or vomiting
If you have a sudden onset of diarrhoea and/or vomiting, it is likely due to infection. Most cases can be managed at home with rest and by drinking plenty of fluids.
If there is blood in the stool, a high fever, or if symptoms persist, contact your local pharmacy or contact your GP.
Lower back pain
Pain in the lower back is often due to muscle strain or minor injury. Most cases can be managed at home with rest and gentle movement.
If the pain is severe, persistent, or associated with numbness, weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control, contact your GP or attend your nearest Minor Injuries Unit (MIU).
Nausea and vomiting
If you are feeling sick and/or being sick, it can be caused by many things. Sickness can usually be managed at home with rest and over-the-counter medicines.
If you are unable to keep fluids down or your symptoms persist, contact your local pharmacy or GP.
Small injury to the head
If you have a minor cut, scrape, or bruises to your head, you can manage this at home.
Clean any wounds and apply ice to reduce swelling.
If you notice symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting or confusion, contact your GP, visit your nearest Minor Injuries Unit (MIU), or call NHS 24 on 111.
Sprained or strained ankle
Stretching or tearing the ankle ligaments is usually caused by twisting or rolling the foot. Most cases can be managed at home with rest, ice, compression and elevation.
If you experience severe pain, cannot bear weight, or notice a deformity, contact your GP or attend your nearest Minor Injuries Unit (MIU).
Sprained or strained foot
Injury to the ligaments or muscles of the foot is usually caused by twisting or overuse. Most cases can be managed at home with rest and elevation.
If you are unable to walk, or there is severe swelling or deformity, contact your GP or attend your nearest Minor Injuries Unit (MIU).
Sprained or strained wrist
Over stretching or tearing the wrist ligaments is often due to a fall. Most cases can be managed at home with rest, ice, compression and elevation.
If you are in severe pain, or notice a deformity, contact your GP or attend your nearest Minor Injuries Unit (MIU).
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
If you have an infection of the urinary tract, you can most likely manage this at home.
Make sure to drink plenty of fluids and contact your local pharmacy or GP, especially if you develop a fever or back pain.
Viral infection
If you have symptoms such as: fever, cough or feeling generally unwell, you can manage this at home with rest and
over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol.
If your symptoms are severe or prolonged, contact your local pharmacy.