University Hospital Galway has issued a statement, warning of long wait times in the Emergency Department.
It says the hospital is extremely busy, with high numbers of people attending the ED who need to be admitted to hospital for ongoing treatment.
There are 34 patients on trollies in the ED and at ward level, while the hospital is also managing flu and COVID-19 outbreaks.
As a result of the pressure, the hospital is reviewing elective procedures, with urgent and time-sensitive cases being prioritised. Patients are being contacted directly if their procedure is being postponed.
People are asked to know their healthcare option and only attend the UHG emergency department if it is an emergency situation.
The statement says that everyone who presents will be treated, with priority given to those who are seriously ill or injured. Patients who do not require urgent care unfortunately may experience longer waiting times.
It also says every effort is being made to discharge patients who are ready to go home so that beds will become available for patients who need to be admitted, at the earliest opportunity.
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