Emergency Department signposting/ redirection guidance

Best practice guidance for Emergency Departments to ensure people are being seen by the right person in the right place for their healthcare need.


Appendix B: NHS Grampian, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary - Emergency Department Triage Matrix

(Extract example for Abdominal Pain)

  • Airway compromise Inadequate breathing RR>29 or <10 Shock

Yes: Red 1; No: continue

  • Severe pain
  • Pain radiating down back
  • Vomiting blood
  • PR bleeding
  • PV blood loss and >20 weeks pregnant
  • Very hot adult (>40 degrees C)
  • Possible sepsis

Yes: Orange 2; No: continue

  • NEWS ≥ 4
  • History of acutely vomiting blood
  • Black or redcurrant stools
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Possibly pregnant
  • Hot adult >38.5°C
  • Shoulder tip pain
  • Moderate pain

Yes: Yellow 3; No: continue

  • NEWS <4
  • Vomiting
  • Recent mild pain
  • Recent problem <72 hours
  • Urine pregnancy test negative

Yes: Grampian Medical Emergency Department (GMED); No: own GP.

Contact

Email: jessica.milne@gov.scot

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