Derriford Hospital has declared a critical incident amid mounting pressure due to an exceptionally high volume of patients requiring medical attention.
The hospital saw more than 300 patients on Monday, January 6, with more than 200 of those admitted as inpatients – significantly higher than usual numbers.
According to University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, many elderly patients are being treated for respiratory problems, which are being exacerbated by the cold weather.
As a result, patients are being urged to avoid visiting the Emergency Department unless it’s a life-threatening emergency. During this critical period, patients may be redirected to alternative healthcare services.
In a message to patients, the hospital stated: “Our colleagues are working hard to prioritise patients based on their clinical need and move patients to the right place for them as soon as possible.”, reports Plymouth Live.
“If you have a very serious or life-threatening emergency, we are here for you, but otherwise, if you need urgent care, we ask you please to call NHS 111 or use NHS 111 online.”
For non-emergency medical issues, patients are advised to contact NHS 111 by phone or online. The Urgent Treatment Centre at the Cumberland Centre in Devonport is available for urgent, non-life-threatening treatment, while the Emergency Department should only be visited in the event of a life-threatening emergency.
For emergency dental care, you should reach out to your regular dentist or dial NHS 111 for assistance outside of normal working hours. If you’re feeling unwell with flu-like symptoms or signs of norovirus, it’s advised that you stay home to prevent spreading the illness to vulnerable individuals and those residing in care homes.
Darryn Allcorn, chief nurse at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, has stated: “Our Emergency Department is there for life-threatening conditions and real emergencies. If you can use other services, such as NHS 111, pharmacy or your GP, please do so. If you do come to the Emergency Department and it is not an emergency or a life-threatening condition, then you may be redirected.”
He further emphasised: “It’s really important we make sure that the sickest patients are prioritised and that we keep our services flowing for those who are in greatest need. Therefore, we ask that at this time unless you are a carer or if the patient who is coming to the hospital is particularly distressed, that those who accompany patients do not to come into the Emergency Department. We need the seating spaces for patients to sit down and be comfortable.”
Lastly, he urged: “We ask that patients, visitors and families be kind to one another and continue to treat staff with respect during this extremely busy period.”
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for snow, with large parts of Devon predicted to be affected by sleet and snow. The warning is in effect from 9am until 11.59pm tomorrow.
Temperatures are set to stay low throughout the day, and widespread disruption is anticipated.