Accident and Emergency (also known as the Emergency Department)
We treat patients in an emergency at our Accident and Emergency Department (A&E) at Stoke Mandeville Hospital.
Also known as the Emergency Department (ED), we’re open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A&E treats patients with life threatening or serious conditions including:
- chest pains
- serious injuries
- a suspected stroke
- heavy blood loss
- breathing difficulties and choking.
Call 999 or visit A&E immediately.
Not sure if A&E is the right place to go?
Call 111 or see our guide to emergency care and treatment We also have an Urgent Treatment Centre at Wycombe Hospital for minor injuries.
Coming to A&E during COVID-19
You must wear a face mask and use hand sanitiser before entering the building.
You must come alone to reduce the risk of infection for yourself, other patients and our staff. Exceptions include patients who:
- are under 18
- have a learning disability, cognitive impairment, or autism
- have communication challenges including hearing or visual impairments
- do not speak English as their first language.
In these circumstances, you can bring one carer, parent, guardian or personal assistant.
For updates about loved ones
Call A&E on 01296 418300. Our lines are very busy and we can only give information to next of kin.
If you’re coming to A&E alone
We recommend that you bring:
- next of kin contact details
- the phone number of the person who will collect you from A&E
- a fully charged mobile phone (and charger) to tell people at home about any tests or treatment you may need
- a book or magazine to pass the time.
If you’re a family member, carer, friend or supporter
Unless you’re with a patient who has exceptional circumstances to bring someone with them (see above), you must either wait in your vehicle or return home.
We ask that you:
- wait at home if you can – consultations and tests can take several hours
- do not use the toilets for infection control reasons
- wait for a call from our staff telling you to pick up your loved one or letting you know that they’re being admitted.
Collecting patients following discharge from A&E
When you arrive, do not enter the A&E department. Call your loved one on their mobile phone or call 01296 418300 and ask us to let the patient know you’re outside waiting for them.