HSE respond to growing pressure on hospital emergency departments

The HSE Dublin and Midlands has responded to ongoing pressure being experienced in hospital emergency departments across the region.

Figures released by the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) on Tuesday showed that there were 25 patients on trolleys at the Midland Regional Hospital Mullingar, 19 of whom were in the emergency department.

While that figure has since decreased, a spokesperson for the HSE Dublin and Midlands has acknowledged that "seasonal pressures can result in increased demand on acute hospitals".

"Increased demand, alongside the need to admit patients to inpatient beds, is contributing to pressure on services. Hospital teams continue to actively manage patient flow and work with community services to support timely discharges where appropriate.

"The HSE continues to monitor demand and prepare for the winter period," the spokesperson said.

The public are being encouraged to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 ahead of winter, where eligible, "to help protect themselves and others and reduce the risk of serious illness".

The HSE Dublin and Midlands has advised patients who are "seriously unwell or experiencing a medical emergency" to attend an emergency department.

"Patients attending an emergency department are prioritised according to clinical need, and waiting times can vary depending on demand, the severity of illness and the availability of inpatient beds," the spokesperson concluded.