Gearing up for hectic period

Hospitals in Cannock and Stafford are gearing up for a busy festive period – and have a Christmas message for people aiming to avoid the dreaded trip to an accident and emergency unit.

Health chiefs are trying to reduce the accident figures which can often make the festive period a hectic one. Between last Christmas Eve and January 2, 1,331 patients were treated at Stafford and Cannock Chase hospitals. Already this winter attendances are up in A&E.

There were 4,619 patients through the doors during October and 4,393 in Nov-ember.

Medics say that winter ailments can often lead people to A&E when help is available elsewhere – from pharmacists, GPs, NHS Direct or services like the Out of Hours Unit at Stafford Hospital or the Minor Injuries Unit at Cannock Chase Hospital.

Karen Morrey, spokeswoman for the Mid Staffordshire General Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "We want people to have a happy, healthy Christmas.

"Our hospitals will be open, as usual, 24 hours a day – but A&E is really there to treat the more serious or emergency cases.

"If someone arrives with a minor problem they may prevent someone else with a more serious condition from getting immediate treatment – or may have to wait to be seen.

"We hope we don't see you – but if you really need us, our staff will be there."

Staffordshire General Hospital's tips for staying healthy include:

* Making sure you have enough medication supplies to last through the holidays.

* If you are drinking alcohol, drink water to keep your fluid levels up.

* Remember that eating and drinking too much can make you feel lethargic and uncomfortable – so moderation is recommended and indigestion remedies should be readily at hand.

* If someone drinks too much, the best course of action is normally to let them sleep it off. Make sure they lie on their side and stay with them in case they are sick. For more information visit the website www.mid staffs.nhs.uk