KILDARE: Naas General Hospital urging patients with non-emergency conditions to seek assistance from other parts of the health service

Naas General Hospital (NGH) is urging patients with non-emergency conditions to seek assistance from other parts of the health service.

It said in a statement released this morning: "NGH has experienced very high attendance and admissions this week.

"The Emergency Department (ED) is under significant pressure with many patients requiring admission and with very high numbers of COVID-19, flu, and other RSV infections."

Management at NGH is asking patients with non-emergency conditions to seek assistance from other parts of the health service such as their local Pharmacist, GP, GP out of hours service, or a minor injury clinic.

They said: "Unfortunately, patients who are presenting at the ED in NGH with non-urgent conditions are experiencing very long waiting times to be seen.  

"Any patient who needs emergency hospital care will be seen and NGH would urge such patients not to delay attending the ED.

"Do not delay in seeking medical attention if you suspect you are having a heart attack or stroke, please dial 999 or 112 in an emergency."

The hospital also said: "We would like to remind the public if you have to attend the ED in an emergency please ensure that you wear a mask, practice social distancing, and ensure you tell the triage personnel if you have any signs/symptoms of Covid-19."  

NGH added that it apologises for any inconvenience caused, and thanked the public for their support and understanding.