University Hospitals of Leicester Trust declares critical incident at Leicester Royal Infirmary and Glenfield Hospital
Hospital bosses have declared a critical incident today (Wednesday) due to an unusually high number of patients seeking treatment.
The University Hospitals of Leicester Trust said staff are working under ‘significant pressure’.
The high number of patients is causing delays in ambulance handovers and patients being discharged.
People are asked to make sure they seek appropriate medical help, which may be via NHS 111.
Medical director Andrew Furlong said: “The safety of patients and the wellbeing of our colleagues remain our top priorities as we work together to care for the people who need us.
“Please only attend the emergency department for life-threatening illness or injury that cannot be treated elsewhere as this allows us to treat those who are most seriously ill.
“If you need care urgently but it’s not life threatening, please call NHS 111 or use 111 online where trained advisors can support you in getting care in the right place for your needs.”
The emergency department at Leicester Royal Infirmary and the clinical decisions unit at Glenfield Hospital are particularly busy.
Mr Furlong added: “I would like to thank our incredible teams across the health and social care sector for their continued efforts in keeping our patients safe.”
Essential services remain fully open for anyone who needs them and anyone who has an appointment over the coming days should attend unless they are contacted directly.