Welcome to the Same Day Care Unit (SDCU | Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

Reference Number: HEY-459/2021
Departments: Ambulatory Care
Last Updated: 18 March 2021

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Introduction

This leaflet gives an overview about how the service works in six simple steps. Please be aware that your journey through the SDCU may vary slightly.

What is same day care?

Same Day Care is a service which offers same day emergency care to patients at the hospital. This means that patients are assessed, diagnosed, treated and are able to go home the same day, without being admitted into a hospital bed overnight wherever possible. This period of assessment, diagnosis and treatment may require you to be in the SDCU for approx. 4 – 6 hours.

1. Before you arrive

You will have been referred to the SDCU by your doctor, the ambulance service or by the Emergency Department Team.

2. Arrival at SDCU

You will be greeted by a member of staff in the SDCU waiting area. Where possible refreshments are provided for patients at intervals during the day. Alternatively, you may wish to use the cafeteria ion the second floor of the hospital (just let a member of staff from the SDCU area know you are going to the cafeteria).

3. Initial Assessment

A member of staff will carry out an initial assessment where they will discuss with you why you have been referred to the SDCU, your care pathway and take some observations (blood pressure/temperature).

4. Investigations

You will need to wait while staff carry out investigations such as X-rays, tests, blood tests and scans (this can take between 4 – 6 hours to complete).

5. Treatment

Once your results are back for all the tests that have been carried out these will be discussed with you, along with any treatment plan that may be required.

Treatment will be commenced in the SDCU where possible and information regarding this will be given to you. Your doctor will receive a clinic letter regarding your attendance and the treatment and care you received whilst in SDCU.

6. Next steps and contact

Once your care in the SDCU is complete you can usually go home; however, on some occasions, you may need to stay in hospital for inpatient care. The staff will discuss with you the next steps for your treatment, review or follow up if required.

On occasion you may be asked to come back to the SDCU the following day for further tests or treatment. This will be discussed and agreed with you and you may be given a dedicated time slot to attend the SDCU, however please note that you may still be required to wait a period of time to be reviewed.

If you have any questions or concerns that you would like to discuss please do not hesitate to speak to the member of staff caring for you at any time during your journey through the SDCU. We are always happy to answer your questions or discuss any concerns that you may have.