High number of patients at Limerick hospital

University Hospital Limerick has been experiencing a high number of patients attending the Emergency Department over the weekend.

 
The hospital has admitted a lot of seriously ill patients recently, many of who remain in the ED, awaiting a bed.

“We are asking people to think about all their care and treatment options and keep ED services for the patients who need them most,” a spokesperson stated.

“For example, many patients with limb injuries can go to an Injury Unit in Ennis, Nenagh or St John’s Hospital. Injury Units are open in Ennis and Nenagh hospitals from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Sunday, and 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday at St John's Hospital. Others with a less serious illness can be treated by their GP or out of hours GP service where their GP can refer them to an Assessment Unit the following day if required.

“However, if you are seriously injured or ill or are worried your life is at risk, the ED will assess and treat you as a priority.”