We run two EAUs. One in South Tyneside and one in Sunderland.
In EAU we look after people who have come to hospital with an urgent or unexpected medical problem. These patients are very unwell and will need to stay overnight.
This is the first place they will go after the Emergency Department, a GP referral or Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) so that we can assess them fully.
In the EAU, patients receive:
- A quick check by senior doctors and nurses
- Early tests like blood tests, heart checks, X‑rays or scans
- Fast treatment like fluids, medicine, oxygen, or other care
- Close watching so staff can spot any changes quickly
Doctors then decide if the patient:
- Can go home
- Needs follow‑up care on the same day
- Needs to stay in hospital on a specialist ward
The aim is to make patients stable, find out what is wrong early and move them safely to the next step of care.
EAU is a very busy area. You will stay there until we assess what is wrong with you. Most people will stay for 2-3 days. Our team looking after you will talk to you and explain what is happening. We may need to admit you to hospital for more treatment after EAU.
We will work as quickly as we can to get you settled onto a ward. Sometimes there might be a wait for a bed when we are very busy.
Please ask our staff any questions you have. We want to make sure you understand what your treatment plan is.
EAU is near to our Emergency Departments (EDs). We have an EAU on both main hospital sites.
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Our senior team in EAU
- Clinical Director – Dr Carina Dowson
- Lead Matron - Ruth Linney
- Divisional Director - Sheena Fish
- Directorate Manager - Lisa Ball
