A Welsh hospital has issued an urgent warning amid a busy emergency department. Swansea Bay University Health Board issued a statement on Monday that described the accident and emergency department at Morriston Hospital as “extremely busy”. The statement said patients are facing long waits and urged the public to consider whether they could use an alternative service before attending A&E.
The statement added: “If you have chest pains/stroke/serious illness/serious injury, STILL come to ED.” A video was shared on the health board’s X account, where Tristan Taylor, senior charge nurse, described the situation. He said: “The emergency department at Morriston Hospital is extremely busy. If you or a loved one have an illness or injury but it’s not an emergency please use alternatives.” He urged the public to use the NHS 111 Wales symptoms checker which can be found online. He also asked people to consider using their local pharmacy.
For the latest health and Covid news, sign up to our newsletter here. He added: “Use the minor injury unit at Neath Port Talbot Hospital which can treat cuts, minor burns, sprains, strains, dislocations and broken bones. But remember it cannot deal with illnesses such as heart attacks, chest pain or stroke.”
The hospital’s emergency department is extremely busy on Monday and patients have been urged to use other services. The plea from the hospital comes as it is experiencing high demand and long waiting times for patients seeking medical attention. The public is encouraged to explore alternative healthcare options before heading to Morriston Hospital’s emergency department.