Health board investigating water quality risk to elderly patients
8 patients have been moved from Ward 7 at Elgin's Dr Gray's following samples which revealed a legionella risk
Elderly patients are being transferred following concerns raised at Elgin's Dr Gray’s Hospital, in light of water quality issues on Ward 7.
Outlets were sampled as part of ongoing redevelopment work, with results revealing a legionella risk. To date no cases have been found in either patients or staff. However, until a through investigation is carried out, the area will remain closed to patients and staff.
Ward 7 is on the first floor of the building, with the area below housing a number of teams, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists and dietitians, who will also move to other locations while works are carried out.
Some medical and administrative staff are based in this area, and will also be relocated, with some appointments potentially rescheduled or relocated.
Alasdair Pattinson, Hospital General Manager, said: “I know this move will cause inconvenience and disruption for patients, their families, and staff alike. However, the safety of everyone in Dr Gray’s Hospital must be a priority. Until we can properly understand and deal with this water quality issue, this is the best course of action.
"...the safety of everyone in Dr Gray’s Hospital must be a priority"
“The hospital is busy at present and making changes like this will likely affect the wider staff team. I am extremely grateful to everyone working on this for their flexibility and hard work, at an already pressured time.
“I want to reassure both patients and their families that care will continue to be delivered, throughout the hospital, to the same high standard. We will be in contact directly with those affected to advise where in the hospital they will be accommodated.”