Visitor restrictions introduced at Portlaoise Hospital

Visiting restrictions are being introduced at the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise due to the prevalence of the flu and Covid 19.  

“Due to high levels of COVID-19 and flu in the community, visiting restrictions are currently being implemented in both Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore and Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise from today, 29th December,” the HSE stated. 

At the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise the HSE said: “There is currently no visiting to the Emergency Department or the Emo Court Ward. Visiting to Slieve Bloom Ward, Dunamaise Ward, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Coronary Care Unit (CCU) can take place between 3pm to 4pm, one visitor per patient during these times. Critical and compassionate circumstances will continue to be accommodated on an individual basis. On the Maternity Ward, designated birthing partner permitted throughout the day.”

Meanwhile at the Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore the HSE advised: “All inpatient visiting must be arranged in advance with the Clinical Nurse Manager/ Nurse in Charge of the ward. Patients may receive 1 visit between 28 December 2022 and 3 January 2023. Critical and compassionate circumstances will continue to be accommodated on an individual basis.”

The HSE says the measures will be kept under review. For up to date guidelines on visiting patients at each hospital, please visit: https://www2.hse.ie/services/hospital-service-disruptions/hospital-service-disruptions-covid19.html

“The Hospitals would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank the public for their understanding and consideration,” the HSE stated. 

“The Hospitals are experiencing a high level of attendances and admissions in recent days. Where possible management are asking patients with non-emergency conditions to seek assistance from other parts of the health service such as their local Pharmacist or GP. Unfortunately, patients who are presenting at the Emergency Departments with non-urgent conditions may experience long waiting times to be seen. 

Any patient who needs emergency hospital care will be seen and we would urge such patients not to delay attending the ED. Do not delay in seeking medical attention if you suspect you are having a heart attack or stroke, please dial 999 or 112 in an emergency,” the HSE stated. 

They are advising people who have to attend the ED in an emergency situation please ensure they wear a mask, practice social distancing and ensure they tell the triage personnel if suffering any signs/symptoms of Covid-19.

“GP out of hours services for the Midlands will be operational during the New Year period from 6pm on Friday, 30th December, 2022 until 8am on Tuesday, 3rd January, 2023. 31st December 2022 and 1st & 2nd January 2023 will be a 24 Hour Service. The service should only be used for urgent cases that cannot wait for the next routine surgery appointment. If you are in need of urgent out of hours care, call 1850 302 702,” the HSE added.