A&E is for life and limb threatening emergencies only. These are things like heavy bleeding, choking and seizures. If you have a minor injury or illness, there are other NHS services which are more suitable for you.
A&E departments, (sometimes known as emergency departments), are for life or limb threatening emergencies only.
Find your nearest A&E departmentIf you have a minor injury or illness, there are other NHS services which are more suitable for you. If you are unsure, please use NHS 111 online or phone 111. If you come to a hospital A&E with a minor issue, you may have a long wait.
Hospitals usually have a separate A&E area for children, sometimes called a Paediatric Emergency Department. Not all hospitals have an A&E department.