Letterkenny Hospital postpones elective surgeries amid ED pressure

A total of 568 patients attended the Emergency Department at Letterkenny University Hospital during the weekend,

There are currently 27 patients in ED waiting beds, while all surge capacity areas, including the Acute Medical Assessment Unit (AMAU) and Day Services Unit (DSU), are full.

Due to the significant pressure on hospital capacity, all elective surgeries have been postponed today.

The hospital acknowledges that these delays are very difficult for patients and their families and apologises for the inconvenience and distress these delays cause.

The hospital is implementing all possible measures to improve patient flow and reduce delays in the Emergency Department and 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 unfortunately may experience longer waiting times.

Patients whose conditions are not emergencies are asked to consider alternative healthcare options, including contacting their GP or GP out-of-hours service, where appropriate. Patients should continue to attend the Emergency Department if they have a serious or potentially life-threatening condition

Community pharmacists provide expert advice and over-the-counter treatments for a wide range of minor illnesses. In addition to this expert advice, a new service is available which allows pharmacists to supply prescription-only medication without the need to see a GP.

The following common conditions can be treated under the Common Conditions Service: allergic rhinitis, cold sores, conjunctivitis, impetigo, oral thrush, shingles, cystitis (uncomplicated urinary tract infection), vaginal thrush. Information about the scheme is available on the HSE website.