It's asking people to consider their options before attending an ED this weekend.
Tullamore Hospital has issued a safety message ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend.
It's asking the public to stay safe this St. Patrick's Day, and is reminding people of their care options outside of an Emergency Department.
Dr Anna Moore, Consultant in Emergency Medicine, MRHT says:
"Over St. Patrick's weekend we see a lot of people presenting with injury or illness putting additional pressure on our already busy emergency department. Unfortunately, as in previous years, we are expecting to see a significant number of patients presenting with injuries and illness."
Catriona Mc Donald General Manager says:
"All patients who present to our emergency department will be seen and treated, with the sickest and most urgent patients being prioritised.
However, patients presenting with non-urgent injuries may face longer waiting times, depending on the number of patients attending and the severity of patient illnesses. Any patient who needs emergency hospital care will be seen and we would urge such patients not to delay attending the ED.
Do not delay in seeking medical attention if you suspect you are having a heart attack or stroke, please dial 999 or 112 in an emergency."
The hospital is asking people to consider these alternatives, if an ED isn't needed:
· Visit your pharmacy for advice on common minor illnesses. Find out more here https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/2/pharmacy/
· Make an appointment with your GP if you’re feeling unwell and it is not an emergency
· If you urgently need to see a GP outside of normal hours, contact your local GP Out of Hours service, details below:
Out of Hours Urgent GP Services:
Opening Hours: Weekdays, Monday to Thursday 6pm to 8am. Weekends 6pm Friday to 8am Monday. All day on Bank Holidays. Telephone 1800 302 702 or go to GP Out of Hours service: GP out-of-hours service - HSE.ie for more information.
An Injury Unit can treat a wide range of injuries such as broken bones, dislocations, sprains and strains, minor burns and scalds for all patients.
All units have access to x-ray and basic diagnostic services.
For more information see www.hse.ie/injuryunits. See details of Injury Units in the midlands below.
1. Mullingar Minor Injuries Unit
Charter Medical Private Hospital, Ballinderry, Mullingar, Westmeath, N91
Saturday 16th March 10am-6pm
Sunday 17th March 10am- 6pm
Monday 18th March 10am-6pm
Service Available To: Age 16 and older
4. Roscommon Injury Unit
Roscommon University Hospital, Athlone Road, Roscommon, F42 AX61
Saturday 16th March 8am-8pm
Sunday 17th March 8am-8pm
Monday 18th March 8am-8pm
Service Available To: Adults and children aged 5 and older
Emergency Departments treat seriously ill patients. Visit an ED or call 999 or 112 if someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk. Those with less severe injuries and symptoms may have to wait to be seen in Emergency Departments
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