Image: Graham Richardson
University Hospitals Plymouth, which manages Derriford Hospital, declared the incident on Tuesday morning because of “significant and rising demand for hospital care.”
It follows a string of other ‘Critical Incidents’ being declared at NHS Trusts around the country, including the Royal Cornwall, Wirral, and Liverpool Trusts. With East Midlands Ambulance Service declaring its first ever Critical Incident
University Hospital Plymouth went on to say “More than 300 people attended Derriford Hospital as emergencies yesterday and nearly 200 of those needed admitting for care as inpatients. We are particularly seeing high numbers of older patients with respiratory problems exacerbated by the cold weather.”
NHS leaders have issued a warning that cases of flu, norovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are increasing, with a rise in COVID-19 also expected. These outbreaks are being dubbed the “Quad-demic.”
Patients have been advised to stay away from A&E unless you have an emergency or life-threatening condition, and patients can expect to wait much longer than usual due to high admission levels. Those in need of less urgent help have been told to call NHS 111, contact their GP, or visit a local pharmacy for advice.
Darryn Allcorn, Chief Nurse at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, said: “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.
“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.
“We ask that patients, visitors and families be kind to one another and continue to treat staff with respect during this extremely busy period.”