‘Significant pressure’ at Altnagelvin ED with 137 patients reported
‘Significant pressure’ was reported at Altnagelvin Emergency Department with 137 patients waiting in the unit at one stage on Monday evening.
Fifty eight patients were waiting for onward admission into the general hospital.
The Western Trust warned the public that long waits may be experienced as patients with the most serious and life-threatening conditions would be prioritised.
“The volume of patients in our ED makes it very challenging for space. Please attend alone unless with a child or vulnerable adult,” the Trust said.
The local authority indicated that bed availability in the general hospital is a contributary factor to the pressures at the ED.
“If a family member or friend has been assessed as medically fit for discharge, please help them return home as soon as possible. Every timely discharge helps make a bed available for another patient waiting for care,” it stated.
Patients whose conditions are urgent rather than emergency situations are asked to contact Out of Hours or Phone First on 03000206000.