Major UK hospital issues urgent A&E warning as patient overload pushes services to the brink
University Hospital of Wales is warning patients to stay away from it's A&E department unless it's an emergency
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One of the UK's biggest hospitals warned people on Monday to steer clear of emergency unit as it's buckling under the wait of high patient numbers.
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board reported extreme pressures on the Emergency Unit at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff.
The Cardiff hospital says there were 180 patients on the ward earlier today.
A statement from the hospital said that there were "long waits" as a result and urged people to only attend in an emergency.
They also offered advice for people with any concerns and urged them to contact 111 for any help they might need.
A statement from the hospital said that there were "long waits" as a result and urged people to only attend in an emergency
PAThe health board are appealing for people to attend the Emergency Unit only if you are experiencing:
- Severe breathing difficulties
- Severe pain or bleeding
- Chest pain or a suspected stroke
- Serious trauma injuries e.g. a car accident
The statement issued at 10am on Monday said "The Emergency Unit at UHW is incredibly busy which is leading to long waits in the department. We are urging the public to only attend the unit in an emergency."
People are being asked to call or visit NHS 111 Wales Symptom Checker for further support if they are feeling unwell. Alternatively, you can phone 111 where your condition will be assessed and an appointment time offered (where required). GPs are the Primary Choice for long-standing medical conditions that need reviewing.