Public Urged to Attend Our Lady of Lourdes E.D. Only for Emergencies Amid High Patient Numbers
Ardee News and Sport — Hospital management at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda is urging the public to only attend the Emergency Department (E.D.) in cases of true emergencies, as the facility faces an overwhelming number of patient presentations. The department has been experiencing an exceptionally high volume of activity in recent days, and as a result, the most critically ill patients are being prioritized for both treatment and available beds.
The surge in patient numbers has placed significant pressure on the hospital’s resources, leading to extended waiting times for those with less urgent conditions. In response, hospital authorities are advising the public to seek alternative care options where possible.
“We are asking people to reserve the Emergency Department for genuine emergencies, where immediate and critical medical attention is required,” a hospital spokesperson said. “Our staff are working tirelessly to care for the most seriously ill patients, but we need the public’s cooperation to ensure we can manage this increased demand effectively.”
To help alleviate pressure on the E.D., the public is being encouraged to contact their General Practitioner (GP) or GP Out of Hours services for non-critical medical issues. Additionally, the hospital is highlighting the availability of the Minor Injuries Unit at Louth County Hospital in Dundalk, which operates from 9am to 8pm daily. Most patients with minor injuries, such as fractures, sprains, or cuts, can be seen, assessed, and treated within one hour at this facility, offering a faster and more convenient alternative to the busy E.D. in Drogheda.
With winter approaching, healthcare services are bracing for further strain, and the public’s cooperation is vital to ensure that those who need emergency care the most can receive it promptly.
Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital management is emphasizing the importance of seeking the appropriate level of care and using available local health services to avoid unnecessary E.D. visits. The public can also access advice and guidance through various medical hotlines, many of which are equipped to provide initial assessments over the phone.
This advisory serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding when and where to seek medical attention, ensuring that hospital resources are directed towards those most in need during this busy period.