Royal Liverpool University Hospital issues alert amidst unprecedented demand on emergency services.
The Royal Liverpool University Hospital has been forced to declare a critical incident following “exceptionally high” demand on its Accident & Emergency (A&E) services. The hospital has seen a significant increase in flu and respiratory illnesses, which have led to a surge in emergency department visits and admissions to wards.
Recent data from the NHS reveals that the number of flu patients in England’s hospitals has quadrupled in the past month, contributing to the severe pressure on healthcare services. In light of this, a spokesperson for the Royal Liverpool University Hospital confirmed that a comprehensive plan is in place to manage the situation, ensuring that appropriate actions are being taken to navigate the current challenges.
“We are working alongside partner organisations to facilitate the discharge of medically fit patients as quickly as possible,” the spokesperson said, noting that some delays would occur as the hospital prioritises the care of the most critically ill patients.
Patients whose conditions are not urgent are being advised to visit their GP, local pharmacy, or a walk-in centre, or alternatively, to contact the NHS 111 service for guidance.
As the largest hospital in Merseyside and Cheshire, the Royal Liverpool University Hospital plays a pivotal role in the region’s healthcare system. The declaration of a critical incident typically occurs when hospitals are overwhelmed by exceptional demand or face severe staffing shortages. It serves as a measure to ensure patient safety and allow hospitals to implement additional precautions, such as prioritising the treatment of the most seriously ill patients and coordinating support from other agencies.
Such incidents can last for hours, days, or, in some cases, weeks, depending on the situation’s severity. Last week, a similar critical incident was declared by the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board after a sharp rise in the number of inpatients. The trust urged people experiencing flu symptoms to avoid attending A&E, further illustrating the growing strain on emergency healthcare services.
