Hampshire hospitals stand down critical incident
Bosses in Winchester and Basingstoke have warned that demand remains high though
A critical incident declared at two Hampshire hospitals has now been stood down, but bosses have warned they are not out of the woods yet.
The Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust first put the warning in place at Winchester's Royal Hampshire County Hospital and the Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital last Tuesday (December 6th).
It was first issued in response to sustained pressures, partly driven by an increase in cases of flu and other winter illnesses.
Bosses say the decision to revoke the critical incident comes after members of the public responded to the message that they should only attend A&E if in need of critical or lifesaving care.
The hospitals have warned that those heading to accident and emergency departments for non life-threatening conditions will still face extremely long waits.
Andy Hyett, Hampshire Hospitals’ Chief Operating Officer said:
"We are enormously grateful to the public for the way in which they are supporting our staff by only coming to the Emergency Department if seriously ill or injured.
"Treating those who need us most is our priority and the public’s efforts is making a real difference.
"Although stepping down from a critical incident is positive and testament to the hard work of our staff and the support of our system partners, we are not out of the woods yet and are unlikely to be for many weeks to come.
"We ask that people continue seeking treatment and healthcare elsewhere unless very unwell."
The public is asked to continue helping by collecting loved ones or friends who need to be discharged.
They can also support the hospitals and reduce pressure on demand by:
• Ringing 111 or using 111.nhs.uk for help and advice if unwell.
• Speaking to local pharmacists and GPs.
• Attending Minor Injury Units or Urgent Treatment Centres.
• Undertaking self-care: using paracetamol or ibuprofen as instructed to manage a fever, keeping warm and hydrated.