Harrogate District Hospital’s Emergency Department has seen its busiest ever week, with over 1,000 attendances, as people take advantage of the good weather. Large numbers of people have been coming in with minor injuries, for example when children have fallen in playgrounds, and with sunburn.
The Emergency Department’s usual weekly attendance rate is around 800 people.
Stephanie Davis, Emergency Department Matron at Harrogate District Hospital, commented:
With the long Bank Holiday weekend coming up, we want to remind people to take care in the sun, including topping up on the suncream and ensuring they have all the medicines they may need before local chemists shut for the weekend.
Of course, the Emergency Department is always open, but we would ask people to think if they really need to come into hospital, or if there is an alternative. For instance, minor grazes can be easily treated with a home first aid kit.
Do remember that there are plenty of local health services for minor ailments. If you need advice about your condition please contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 who will direct you to the most appropriate service to manage your injury or illness.
GP services can be accessed out of hours by phoning your local GP’s surgery. Information on pharmacy opening hours over the Bank Holiday weekend are also available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year from NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or visit www.nhs.uk
