The Western Health and Social Care Trust are advising people to only attend the Emergency Department (ED) at the South West Acute Hospital if they have a "medical or mental health emergency" as the department has been extremely busy this afternoon (Monday, August 16).
In a post to its social media pages around 4pm this afternoon, a spokesperson for the Trust said: "There are currently 38 people in ED and 15 are waiting [for] beds.
"Please only attend the ED if you have a medical or mental health emergency. Consider alternative healthcare options available to you at this time."
The Trust spokesperson highlighted that if you are attending the ED at the hospital you must:
- Attend alone. Children and vulnerable adults with communication difficulties can be accompanied by one person
- Wear a face mask at all times
- Keep your social distance
- Sanitise your hands regularly
- Respect staff and the guidance they give you.
Phone First is in place in the Trust's Emergency Departments and Urgent Care and Treatment Unit.
- The number to ring - 0300 020 6000
- Text relay number - 0870 240 5152
- Interpreter Now App: https://interpreternow.co.uk/hscni
"Thank you for your patience and cooperation at this time," added the Trust spokesperson.
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