Sherwood Forest Hospitals declare a critical incident
Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust yesterday declared a critical incident in response to the sustained pressure they continue to face across their hospitals.
The Trust are also experiencing challenges around discharges to meet the demand of patients waiting to be admitted.
Members of the public can help to ease the pressures by:
•Thinking NHS 111 first by visiting 111.nhs.uk online or calling 111 for advice on where to access treatment
•Seeking advice from a local pharmacist who may be able to help. They can suggest over-the-counter treatments and some local pharmacies are open out-of-hours.
•Contacting their GP team during their normal opening hours for all other conditions
•Working with the Trust’s hardworking teams to help loved ones who are ready to be discharged to get home as soon as possible
•Continuing to attend appointments as planned unless contacted and told otherwise
•Only attending the Emergency Department at King’s Mill Hospital if it is an emergency – otherwise other treatment choices should be considered
Simon Roe, Chief Medical Officer at Sherwood Forest Hospitals, said: “The safety of patients and the wellbeing of our colleagues remain our top priorities as we work to manage the pressures on our services.
“If you have a serious injury or it is a life-threatening emergency, our Emergency Department is here for you.
“If you need care urgently but it is not life threatening, please call NHS 111 or use 111 online where trained advisors can support you in getting care in the right place for your needs. This allows us to treat those who are most seriously ill.”