Beds full across Basingstoke and Winchester hospitals as trust declares critical incident

Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has declared a critical incident because of pressures at both Basingstoke and Winchester hospitals.

The trust says these pressures include a high admission rate, a high number of infectious patients requiring isolation, and a low discharge rate. 

In a statement, it said: "This decision has not been taken lightly; however, beds across both hospitals are full and attendance at our emergency departments is extremely high, which means there is currently no capacity to admit further patients needing our care."

People are being urged to only attend the emergency department for a life-threatening illness or injury. 

Julie Dawes, chief nurse for Hampshire Hospitals, added: “This year has seen an unusually high level of winter viruses with a significant number of patients presenting with respiratory issues.  

“There are two ways the public can help at this time; firstly, by only attending our Emergency Departments if acutely unwell or injured; and secondly by collecting loved ones who are ready for discharge.

"Our ward teams can help with medication or equipment so if you can, please have the conversation and collect loved ones; this will free up capacity for someone who is in need of hospital treatment and care.

“Anyone suffering from a winter virus is advised to stay at home and rest, drink plenty of fluids, and use over-the-counter medication such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to assist with managing symptoms.”  

The trust is currently reviewing patients scheduled for elective procedures and appointments.

People should assume their procedure or appointment will go ahead as planned, unless they hear from the trust directly.

Those in need of medical assistance are being encouraged to speak to NHS 111, their GP, pharmacy, or urgent treatment centre.

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