News / NHS
Southmead Hospital’s busiest ever day
The NHS has urged the public to only use A&E services if there is a real need after a Bristol hospital had its busiest ever day.
Stretched doctors and nurses at Southmead Hospital battled to keep up as 342 patients arrived for treatment, in busy scenes witnessed in emergency rooms across the area.
But this weekend could be even busier, with the heatwave set to continue and large events such as St Paul’s Carnival and the Bristol Grand Prix bringing tens of thousands of people into the city.
is needed now More than ever
St Paul’s Carnival is expected to draw huge crowds to the city
A&E departments can often become clogged up in the summer months by people with heat-related conditions and other less serious injuries.
The NHS said many could be better served at minor injuries units or by a pharmacist.
Dr Lesley Ward, GP and clinical lead for unplanned care in the Bristol area, said “We hope that people have an enjoyable time without any illness or injury, but if you do need to seek medical advice for any reason, please take a minute to check your options and make sure you’re using the right service for your needs.
“If you’re not sure which service to use or what’s available over the weekend, just dial NHS 111, at any time, for help.”
Traditionally, winter is the busiest time for the NHS departments, but unusually high temperatures can sometimes hit A&E departments as hard as low temperatures.
Health bosses are advising people to stay hydrated
Lead emergency department consultant at North Bristol NHS Trust, Leilah Dare, said: “Patients have been coming to us for a variety of reasons and some of these have been linked to the recent hot weather.
“We want everyone to enjoy the sunshine and the summer activities, but please do take care of yourself in the heat: stay hydrated, don’t drink too much alcohol and remember to wear sun protection or cover up. If you feel unwell after sitting in the sun go inside into a cool room and drink some water.
“If you have a healthcare complaint that has been ongoing for several weeks, or are considering visiting A&E after work because it is a convenient time, the likelihood is that you don’t need the services of the emergency team and we would ask you to visit a more appropriate healthcare provider, such as your local pharmacist, GP or out of hours service.
“Other services will also usually see you much more quickly than A&E when it’s not an emergency.”
Detailed advice on local health services can be found at www.bnssgccg.nhs.uk and a free ‘service finder’ app, offering on-the-go information about local services, is also available to download.
Jack Pitts is a local democracy reporter for Bristol.
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