Statement on Critical Incident

Statement on Critical Incident - posted at 9.40am on 23rd October 

A Wirral University Teaching Hospital spokesperson said:

“Due to an issue in our Sterile Services Department affecting surgical instruments in recent days which unfortunately has not been resolved, the Trust has taken the decision to declare a Critical Incident.

“Patient safety is always our top priority and we have unfortunately had to take the decision to pause elective activity. We have robust plans in place to manage the incident and we are also seeking support from other Trusts to minimise the impact on patients at this time.

“We are still performing some emergency surgery and where that is not possible, we are diverting patients to other Trusts. We have a process to manage risk if patients do require a divert and we are working closely with neighbouring Trusts to mitigate the impact on patients.

“Unfortunately multiple operations have been postponed so we can focus our resource on urgent and emergency procedures. The Trust is contacting all patients that are impacted. Patients should continue to attend the hospital unless told otherwise.”

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