The Surgical Assessment Unit is part of the Surgical Specialities Directorate at Darent Valley, under the direct management of the Directorate General Manager, Matron and Emergency Nurse. The unit provides initial assessment upon arrival for both male and female patients who have arrived at Darent Valley Hospital via a GP referral or A&E source. The patients in this unit may be discharged once the investigations has taken place, or, if required, be admitted to an acute ward for further treatment.
The unit has an Surgical Emergency Sister who is solely responsible for facilitating the emergency theatre session for patients who require emergency surgery. The sister also assists the medical team in fast track referrals to surgeons from A&E as appropriate and ensures an efficient pathway is undertaken for patients, thus ensuring best practice and a dedicated service of care.
