Letterkenny University Hospital (LUH) is grappling with a surge in patients presenting to the emergency department.
173 people attended the Emergency Department yesterday (Thursday).
Long wait times are reported again today as 82 patients seek care, with 12 patients waiting to be admitted.
“All available beds in the hospital are in use,” said a statement from Saolta.
“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 so that beds will become available for patients who need to be admitted, at the earliest opportunity.”
Patients are being treated strictly in order of medical priority.
“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 spokesperson added.
“We continue to request that people consider other options for non-emergency care such as Out of Hours GP and pharmacies before attending an ED.
“Please do not visit the hospital if you have any Respiratory symptoms or have had contact with someone who has COVID-19.
“Visitors are advised that they must use the alcohol hand gels regularly while at the hospital, face masks are also available for use throughout the hospital.
“Keeping up to date with your vaccines is the most important thing you can do to avoid serious COVID-19 illness. Find out more here.”
