Lanarkshire hospitals overwhelmed with Coronavirus cases

NHS Lanarkshire is dealing with more Coronavirus patients now than at the start of the pandemic.

Hospitals there have hit 90% capacity and are treating more than 200 positive cases, with a further 44 suspected cases of Coronavirus.

We also understand non-essential surgery at Monklands Hospital has been suspended.

NHS Lanarkshire is now appealing to the public for help in reducing Covid-19 rates in our hospitals by following F.A.C.T.S.

Judith Park, director of acute services for NHS Lanarkshire, said: “We are currently treating more than 200 patients with confirmed Covid-19 in our hospitals, which is more patients than at the height of the first wave of the pandemic.

“I would like to remind the public that Covid-19 is causing severe pressure on our NHS resources in Lanarkshire. In fact, Lanarkshire currently has one of the highest rates of Covid-19 transmission in Scotland.

“To protect our loved ones, our staff and our hospitals, it is vitally important that we all follow Scottish Government guidance, especially in relation to F.A.C.T.S.

“Everyone should take care to wear a face covering when indoors, on public transport or when physical distancing is difficult. We should avoid crowded places and clean our hands regularly. We should also keep a two metre distance from others and self-isolate and book a test if we show symptoms.”

At the height of the pandemic, 9,279 people attended emergency departments across Lanarkshire. In September this increased by over 6,600 to 15,898.

We have also seen an increase of 1,498 patients requiring subsequent admission to hospital. This month’s figures are set to be even higher.

Ms Park added: “Our emergency departments are also exceptionally busy.

“We want to provide the best and safest care for our patients. To do that, I am appealing to the public for their help in reducing the risk of Covid-19 in Lanarkshire hospitals.

“We need to ensure that our hospitals comply with physical distancing. Therefore, please do not attend our emergency departments unless it is an emergency.

“If you have an appointment at one of our clinics or departments, please attend alone. The exception to this is for children and vulnerable adults, who can be accompanied by one person.”

People who need immediate medical assistance should call their GP practice, or 111 out of hours, and in emergencies dial 999.

Emergency departments should still be used for serious conditions such as suspected heart attacks, strokes, severe asthma or diabetic collapse.

Other community health services, including GP practices and pharmacists, are still available for other health needs and concerns.

NHS Lanarkshire also has minor injuries units. More details are on the NHS Lanarkshire website at www.nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk

Ms Park said: “Your community pharmacy and GP practices are open. The first appointment may be by telephone or video call however this is an important step in finding out if you, or someone you know, needs urgent medical help.”

The health board is also dealing with an outbreak at the Lindsayfield Lodge care home in East Kilbride. It is understood 15 residents there have tested positive.

Ashley Goodfellow, NHS Lanarkshire consultant in public health, said:

“NHS Lanarkshire’s Health Protection Team is currently managing an outbreak in Lindsayfield Lodge.

“We are working closely with the care home manager and have provided outbreak management and infection prevention and control advice and support to the home.

“NHS Lanarkshire’s Health Protection Team is in regular contact with all care homes which have an outbreak until they are resolved and formally declared over.

“We recognise this has been a difficult time for care home residents, their families and friends, and members of staff.”