"Disastrous" overcrowding at Lourdes Hospital

The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation has called for the Major Disaster Protocol to be invoked at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda due to severe overcrowding.
This morning, a total of 57 patients were waiting for an in-patient bed, resulting in what the nurses union described as hardship and inhumane conditions for both patients and staff. 
According to INMO representative, Tony Fitzpatrick; “The equivalent of two full wards are waiting for admission in the Emergency Department.
“The situation is extremely dangerous for patients and staff and the INMO is calling for the hospital to be taken off call immediately. 
“Staff are deeply distressed at the level of overcrowding especially as trolleys are now overflowing to the adjoining corridors.' 
Deputy Peadar Tóibín said the crisis further underlines the importance of Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan
“It is ridiculous to have one hospital in disaster mode, while the government proposes to downgrade Navan.
 
A spokesperson for the HSE said that the Emergency Department in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital is exceptionally busy and hospital management has invoked the hospital’s full escalation protocol. 
She said the most critically ill patients are prioritised for treatment and available beds.
“As a result, some patients may experience delays in being seen and where necessary, admitted. Patients attending with minor injuries will experience longer wait times in the Department.”
She said non urgent trauma patients who present to Cavan General Hospital are being held in Cavan for the moment. Usually, all trauma, both urgent and non urgent were routinely sent to Our Lady of Lourdes.
“The HSE would encourage the public to attend the Emergency Department for emergencies only and would advise people to contact their GP or GP Out of Hours services in the first instance.