Welcome to Acute Medicine and CAU
Services provided by the department
The Clinical Assessment Unit (CAU) is the first point of entry for patients referred to hospital as an acute medical emergency (AME) by their GP and those requiring admission from the Emergency Department. Its primary role is to provide rapid definitive assessment, investigation and treatments for patients.
CAUs have been established in many NHS hospitals and the specialities has evolved rapidly over the past decade. New medical teams with Consultants in Acute Medicine have been established leading to a redesign of the way medical care is delivered.
CAUs are distinctly different to that of general wards in St Peters and are configured with operational policies to provide an optimal environment for high quality of medical and nursing assessment, and care, 24 hours a day, over 7 days a week prior to admission, discharge or transfer to the appropriate environment.
The Clinical Assessment Unit is open:
- For all (haemo-dynamically-stable) GP adult medical referrals.
- 24/7 - Mon to Sun inclusive.
Location: First Floor, Urgent and Emergency Care Centre, St Peter's Hospital
Telephone: 01932 722010
The following pages will introduce you to the CAU and will explain some of the important aspects of you care, treatment and discharge. The unit is committed to ensuring you are discharged home safely as soon as you are medically fit.
