ACORNS

After assessment and treatment in the children’s emergency department, your child may be referred to the ACORNS (Acute Children’s Outreach Nursing) team by one of the children’s doctors or advanced nurse practitioners. This is so their progress can be monitored at home.

How we help

The team has experienced registered children’s nurses who’ll provide assessment and support for your child during an acute period of illness, both over the telephone and if required then in your own home. This will be based upon both the concerns of the nurse and yourself. Please note that it’s not an emergency service.

This service will be provided for 24 to 48 hours after leaving the children’s emergency department. Once your child is getting better they’ll be discharged into the care of their GP.

It’s important that you follow the advice given by the ACORNS nurses so that you can identify signs that show a deterioration in your child’s illness. If your child’s illness worsens or you are worried then:

• In an emergency dial 999
• Call the ACORNS team on weekdays from 8am to 8pm or weekends from 8am to 6pm
• Out of hours call the NHS 111 helpline.

Where we are

The ACORN team is based at the Children’s Emergency Department, Level 6, Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital (the Alex).

Contact us