New assessment unit helps local hospital treat more patients

South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust (SWFT) have developed a new Surgical Assessment Unit (SAU) at Warwick Hospital and it is now fully operational.

The purpose designed unit is designed to support and enhance our emergency surgical services by enabling clinicians to rapidly assess patients, provide early diagnostics and implement treatment plans for patients referred to both general surgery and urology specialities. Having this facility on site will support a reduction in waiting times and aims to provide same day care for emergency patients, who otherwise might be admitted to hospital. Ambulatory GP and A&E referrals are accepted to the unit, supporting patients to be seen by an appropriate clinician in a timely manner.

The Trust have invested £1.2million to create this specialist unit which houses a triage area, seated area and 4 beds including a single room with ensuite. Patients with general surgical needs including, acute abdominal pain such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, biliary pains, hernias or abscesses and urological issues, will be referred to the SAU for investigations and any necessary treatment.

The development will also play a vital role in supporting the hospital throughout the winter period. It will enable patients visiting the site for urgent surgical care to be assessed and treated in a designated area, supporting the Trust’s ability to effectively manage COVID-19.

Annalie Baker, Surgical Advanced Clinical Practitioner, commented on the new unit: “I am really excited that we have a new, permanent Surgical Assessment Unit at the hospital. This development will enable us to offer emergency surgical patients rapid access to the care and treatment they need, as well as freeing up capacity in the Emergency Department. At SWFT we feel very strongly about patients being treated in the most appropriate setting, so investing in areas like this enables us as clinicians to do our jobs effectively, whilst improving the patient experience.”

Notes to Editors:

Photo caption: Staff on the Surgical Assessment Unit.

To see more photos and a message from Annalie Baker, Surgical Advanced Clinical Practitioner please watch: https://youtu.be/gpxMBDtKiCE

For more information: Please email communications@swft.nhs.uk or call 01926 495 321 ext. 4673

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