Journal of advanced nursing
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Increasing attendances in accident and emergency (A and E) departments in the United Kingdom have been attributed to a greater number of patients presenting with minor injuries. A and E staff believe this type of patient is suitable for primary care, and is 'inappropriate' for A and E management. Thus, A and E staff find 'inappropriate' attenders time-consuming and unrewarding, and are less motivated to help them, whilst 'inappropriate' patients believe they have attended the appropriate service for their medical needs and expectations. ⋯ This is exacerbated by the unclear boundaries and roles of minor injury units, nurse practitioners and general practitioners in minor injury care. Therefore research is required into current attendances in minor injury units, A and E departments and general practice, in order to develop clear roles and boundaries for these services. More importantly, research is warranted into the attitudes of all minor injury care providers towards attending patients, and into patient perceptions of the services offered.