Is it an emergency?

University Hospital's emergency care centre sees over 100,000 patients every year.

Most of these patients are very ill or injured and need the expert care provided by the doctors and nurses in the centre.

All but the most severely-ill patients are assessed by a triage nurse who directs each patient to the most appropriate part of the department for their condition. This may be the major trauma unit, the children's unit, the minor injuries department or the primary care urgent care unit.

Click here for more information on the emergency care centre.

Sometimes people are unsure whether they should go to the emergency care centre (A&E) for help or if they should use one of the many alternative health facilities.

Click on the guide below to help you make the best choice for your particular condition.

NHS Stoke on Trent has more information on their website on looking after yourself when feeling unwell.

Click here to visit their website.