Health advice to keep you out of A&E during the August Bank Holiday weekend

When you are enjoying the three day bank holiday weekend, be careful not to enjoy it too much and end up spending part of your time off at A&E.

NHS East Staffordshire have issued a warning to all those heading out of work on Friday, August 25 and who don’t have to be back until Tuesday about staying safe.

Health bosses want people to make the most of the bank holiday weekend by avoiding picking up a minor illness or injury and choosing the right care to avoid long waiting times should anything happen.

Dr Charles Pidsley, from East Staffordshire Clinical commissioning group explained that: "We want people to make the most out of the bank holiday and spells of good weather this summer, but we also want to ensure people are prepared to look after themselves and know where to go if they do have a health need over the weekend.

"If you are unlucky enough to need medical advice when your surgery is closed – ask your community pharmacist or ring NHS 111. Calls are free from mobiles or landlines and provides help and advice 24 hours a day. If you need to see a health professional, the 111 service will be able to give you an appointment."

The NHS has also explained that residents should look to use other health services, other than emergency services, saying that it is only for serious injuries or illnesses.

They have provided advice on how to handle different common, minor injuries to help you avoid a long wait in a waiting room this bank holiday.

For cuts and grazes, it is advised to clean the wound, then cover it with a plaster or dressing. Apply pressure with a towel to stop any bleeding and raise the affected part of the body. Paracetamol can be used to ease any pain.

If you or your child has a sprain, start by resting the affected area for at least 48 hours. Ice packs can be used on the first day for 20 minutes, up to eight times. Compress the area with a bandage and elevate it for at least an hour to decrease swelling.

If you have done everything you can think of to try and treat any minor injuries, then always seek further medical advice.

Get advice about non-emergency medical problems by calling 111, which is available 24 hours a day and is free to call.

For information on symptoms and treatments, visit the NHS website at www.nhs.uk .