A Welsh hospital’s emergency department is facing exceptional busyness, prompting health officials to advise patients to consider seeking medical help from alternative services. Swansea Bay UHB issued a warning on Monday about the high volume of patients at the emergency department in Morriston Hospital. The health board reiterated the situation on Tuesday, urging the public to explore other options for their healthcare needs. They suggested utilising services such as the minor injury unit at Neath Port Talbot Hospital, pharmacies for advice and medications, and the NHS 111 Wales website for guidance on symptoms and appropriate actions. The health board expressed gratitude to the community for their cooperation during this challenging period.
The statement emphasised that Morriston Hospital’s emergency department is currently under significant pressure and advised individuals to avoid visiting unless absolutely necessary. The Minor Injury Unit at Neath Port Talbot Hospital was highlighted as an alternative for treating minor injuries like cuts, burns, sprains, strains, dislocations, and broken bones for both adults and children over one year old. However, the unit is not equipped to handle conditions such as suspected heart attacks, chest pain, or stroke. Local pharmacies were recommended as a valuable resource for medical advice and prescriptions. The NHS 111 Wales website was also endorsed for offering information on symptoms and appropriate next steps.
The health board’s call for patients to consider other services comes amidst the ongoing strain on Morriston Hospital’s emergency department. The community is urged to support the healthcare system by choosing the most suitable service for their medical needs and only visiting the emergency department in cases of true emergency.SWANSEA NEWS: Welsh hospital ‘exceptionally busy’ as patients told to consider other services
The health board is urging people to consider using the minor injury unit as well as other services.