Emergency Department - Paediatric (Children)

General introduction

The Paediatric Emergency Department (Accident and Emergency) at Warrington Hospital provides emergency care for children and young people from the Warrington area, including Newton-Le-Willows, Runcorn, St Helens, Widnes, Appleton, Stretton, Stockton Heath, plus Runcorn and Widnes. 

The unit provides nine beds within cubicles.

Opening times

We are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Please be aware that at extremely busy times, we will have a one parent / carer policy in the department.

What to expect on arrival in the department

• You will be asked to give a very brief reason for your visit so you can wait in the correct area.
• You and your child may be put into a cubicle or you may be seated in the communal waiting area to await their individual assessment.
• Your child will be called into the triage cubicle (if they are not already in a cubicle) to have their basic observations done and a triage (initial assessment) to determine their priority for treatment.
• You will then wait to be seen by a doctor, nurse practitioner, physician associate or medical student. This can take some time during busy periods.
• Your child will have their observations done according to their triage (priority) category - this can be up to every four hours.
• During this time please bear in mind that children will be seen in order of priority, so those who are most urgently in need of treatment will always be seen first.
• Each cubicle has a nurse call button, please use this if you need any assistance.

If at any time, you feel your child is getting worse, please tell the staff on duty so we can repeat their observations. 

What to bring with you

• If your child is under five years old, bring their 'Red Book' with you if you can
• Baby feeds, nappies and other essentials
• Snacks or drinks, especially if your child has a special diet
• Any medication your child is taking
• Your child's favourite toy, book or comforter