‘Significant pressure’ reported at Derry A&E with 112 in facility and 88 waiting for general hospital bed
Altnagelvin’s Emergency Department reported significant pressure on Monday with over 100 people waiting in the facility and almost 90 awaiting onward admission into the general hospital at one point.
The Western Trust said the volume of patients in the ED made it ‘very challenging for space’ and urged people to attend alone where possible.
On Monday evening 112 patients were waiting in the A&E, 88 were awaiting admission into the hospital, and 41 extra beds deployed across the hospital as the Trust responded to increased attendances.
"If your condition is urgent rather than an emergency, we encourage you to seek the assistance of your Out Hours GP, Community Pharmacy or call the Phone First service from 8am – midnight where experienced healthcare professionals will advise you on the best route and location for treatment. The Phone First number is 03000206000,” the Trust said.
Members of the public were reminded to call 999 or proceed to ED if they have a medical or mental health emergency.