Same Day Emergency Care at Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath 

What does the Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) service do? 

The Same Day Emergency Care Service aims to have you seen by a doctor or nurse, diagnosed, treated and able to go home on the same day.   

We try to make sure that you will not be at the hospital for longer than six hours, but this may depend on the tests that you need. Your doctor will talk to you if you need to be here for longer.  

Where is the SDEC?

The SDEC is on the ground floor of the Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath, accessible from main entrance. It is open from Monday to Sunday 8.30am to 8pm.  

Why have I been referred to the SDEC? 

You have been referred to the SDEC because you need to be checked and possibly treated by a specialist, but you do not need to be admitted to hospital.

What do I need to take with me to the SDEC?

Please bring:

• any medicines that you are already taking.
• we will provide tea, coffee, biscuits and sandwiches but you may want to bring your own food and drink. Please be aware that we can’t heat any food.
• something to do, like a book, magazine, iPad or tablet.

Can I bring someone with me?

Yes, you can bring one other person with you.

Do I need to bring night clothes?

No, you do not need to bring night clothes.

What do I need to do when I arrive at SDEC at the Princess Royal Hospital?

Please report to the SDEC reception when you arrive. Let them know you have been referred to SDEC.

What will happen to me at the SDEC?

Step 1

You will be assessed by a nurse who will:

• ask you questions about your symptoms.
• take some observations. For example, your heart rate and blood pressure.
• take blood samples or put in a cannula. This is a thin tube which is inserted under the skin into a vein. Medicine can be given to you, or blood taken, through this. 
• decide whether you need an ECG.

Step 2

A doctor will see you. If you need any other investigations, for example scans or x-rays, they will be organised as soon as possible. You may have to wait for the results of these investigations. You will be able to wait in SDEC.

Step 3

A doctor will look at the results of your tests and decide what treatment you need.

Step 4

Sometimes, you may need further tests, or your doctor may be advised by a specialist doctor to help decide the best treatment for you.

Step 5

You may be given treatment at SDEC, but you can also be sent home with your medicine.

Step 6

We always aim to get you home on the same day with a treatment plan. This treatment plan may involve another appointment, which will be organised before you leave.

What if I’m not able to go home?

It is very unlikely that you will need to be admitted to hospital, but if you need to stay in hospital, we will find a bed for you as soon as possible.

Who can I contact for further information and advice?