The Emergency Department at University Hospital Galway (UHG ) has had an extremely busy week.
Management says high numbers of people attending the its Emergency Department (ED ) had to be admitted for ongoing treatment over the past number of days, and some elective procedures must be delayed due to bed shortages.
On Monday, November 24, over 300 people attended the ED. On Tuesday morning there were more than 36 patients in the ED, plus a total of 50 patients across the department and its overflow wards.
The hospital is implementing special measures to improve patient flow and reduce delays in the ED this weekend. It is asking the public to consider all available healthcare options before attending.
Everyone who presents will be treated, with priority given to those who are seriously ill or injured. Patients who do not require urgent care may experience longer waiting times.
Due to a lack of bed capacity, the hospital is postponing some elective procedures. Urgent, time sensitive cases are being prioritised. Patients are being contacted directly if their procedure is being postponed.
All available beds in the hospital are in use. Patients are facing long waiting times to be admitted from the Emergency Department to a bed on a ward. Every effort is being made to discharge patients who are ready to go home.
The HSE advice is to consider your local pharmacy, family doctor, or out-of-hours GP in the first instance. Roscommon injury unit is open from 8am to 8pm.
UHG acknowledges that long waits are difficult for patients and their families and apologises for inconvenience and distress these delays cause. People who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend EDs where they will be prioritised.
The hospital is implementing strict hand hygiene protocols during flu season, and advice is available on common illnesses such as colds, coughs, flu, earache and sore throats on HSE.ie
Medics say keeping up to date with your vaccines is the best way to avoid serious illness from flu and COVID-19.
Find your nearest clinic at www.hse.ie
