‘Very high number of people’ arriving at Hull Royal Infirmary Emergency Department

‘On Monday alone, we saw almost 400 patients, with almost half presenting with less serious illnesses or injuries’

People not needing emergency treatment are being urged to consider alternatives to Hull Royal Infirmary’s Emergency Department as “almost half” of its patients arrived on Monday “with less serious illnesses or injuries.” This comes following reports of long waits in recent days at the NHS hospital.

Last month the hospital warned of long waits in the Emergency Department amid “intense pressure on services.” These pressures have continued into December as temperatures drop and illnesses spread.

Interim Group Chief Nurse Heather McNair said: “We are currently seeing a very high number of people arriving at our Emergency Department at Hull Royal Infirmary. On Monday alone, we saw almost 400 patients, with almost half presenting with less serious illnesses or injuries.

“Our dedicated team of nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, allied health professionals and support staff are working tirelessly to see everyone as quickly as possible, but those not needing emergency care may face long waits. Even those requiring admission may experience delays due to pressure across our hospitals.

“We urge anyone not needing emergency treatment to consider visiting the Urgent Treatment Centre, speaking to a pharmacist, or contacting their GP practice for advice. You call also call NHS111 if you’re not sure which service could help you.”

Hull’s Urgent Treatment Centre is at Hull Royal Infirmary, and can be accessed near the main hospital entrance. The service is open from 8am-8pm, seven days a week. Those with life-threatening emergencies should not be deterred from going to the Emergency Department.

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