Programmed Treatment Unit – Antrim Area Hospital

The Programmed Treatment Unit ( PTU) is a medical ambulatory care service in Antrim Area Hospital, offering same day care to patients at the hospital. This means that patients are assessed, diagnosed, treated and are able to go home the same day, without being admitted into hospital overnight.

The unit is situated next to the Direct Assessment Unit (DAU) on Level B in Antrim Hospital. Entrance can be gained either through the DAU entrance or via the main hospital entrance.

Who will look after me?

The service will be delivered by specialty doctors and a team of nurses. You will remain under the care of your own Consultant and the PTU team will be able to contact your consultant if they have any concerns about you.

The Unit Sister or Deputy are on each shift and are responsible for coordinating the care and treatment of all patients.  A team of doctors, registered nurses and senior nursing assistant will take care of you during your time in the unit and we aim to keep you informed of your care at all times.

Any comments, positive or negative, can be given to the nurse in charge of your care.

When you arrive

Our administration team will book you onto the system and check your details are correct.

You will have been allocated a time for your treatment or investigations to begin.

The nurse will ask you about your general health prior to commencing your treatment or investigations.

What if I become unwell during my treatment or investigations?

If you become unwell during your time in the Programmed Treatment Unit and you need to remain in hospital, you will be transferred to your consultant’s ward for care to be continued.

The staff in the unit will arrange this admission and communicate with your family or next of kin.

Services available

PTU is equipped with comfortable chairs and trollies to facilitate your treatments, toilet facilities, television and wifi access. Meals and refreshments will be provided throughout your stay. Special dietary requirements can be catered for and hot meals can be provided.

Opening hours

The Programmed Treatment Unit is open Monday – Friday from 8.30am – 5pm.