A new unit designed to support emergency surgery services has opened at Warwick Hospital.

The Surgical Assessment Unit (SAU) will enable clinicians to quickly assess, find problems early and begin treatment for patients referred to both general surgery and urology specialities.

The SAU will help to cut waiting times and provide same day care for emergency patients who otherwise would have to be admitted to hospital.

NHS South Warwickshire Foundation Trust has spent £1.2million on the unit which includes a triage area, seated area and four beds including a single room with ensuite.

Patients with general surgical needs including acute abdominal pain such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, biliary pains, hernias or abscesses and urological issues, will be referred to the SAU for investigations and any necessary treatment.

The development will also play a vital role in supporting the hospital throughout the winter period.

It will enable patients visiting the site for urgent surgical care to be assessed and treated in a designated area, supporting the trust's ability to effectively manage Covid-19.

Surgical advanced clinical practitioner Annalie Baker said: "I am really excited that we have a new, permanent Surgical Assessment Unit at the hospital.

"This development will enable us to offer emergency surgical patients rapid access to the care and treatment they need, as well as freeing up capacity in the emergency department.

"At SWFT we feel very strongly about patients being treated in the most appropriate setting, so investing in areas like this enables us as clinicians to do our jobs effectively, whilst improving the patient experience."

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