Emergency Department at Cavan 'exceptionally busy'

Public asked to stay away except in cases of genuine emergency

Members of the public are being urged not to attend the Emergency Department at Cavan General Hospital except in cases of genuine emergency.

The General Manager of the local acute hospital facility has issued a memo to GPs, the public and the media advising that the Emergency Department at the hospital is currently "exceptionally busy".

A number of such appeals have issued in recent weeks and months as Winter flu and Covid cases continue to put pressure on the ED.

Suzann O'Callaghan has said: "Anyone attending the Emergency Department with a non-urgent condition will experience very long wait times."

She concedes "unfortunately this sort of situation is now a frequent occurrence and we sincerely apologise for that. As always, the staff are working very hard to treat and care for those who are particularly ill."

The manager is also asking patients and families to work with them to help free up beds. "We need patients and families to work with us at the point of discharge and accept placements that may be immediately available."

Ms O'Callaghan stresses again: "Please only attend the Emergency Department if your condition is urgent and needs immediate attention.

"We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter."

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Winter flu and Covid putting pressure on Emergency Department