Craigavon Area Hospital in "dire" and "critical state" because of COVID-19, say nurses

By Q Radio News

Nurses have reported a "dire" situation at Craigavon Area Hospital due to the impact of COVID-19, according to a local MLA.

Dolores Kelly, MLA for Upper Bann, says she has had reports of the hospital being in a "critical state."

Latest figures from the Department of Health show there are currently 40 COVID-19 related in-patients at the hospital.

Dolores Kelly

Speaking to Q Radio, Ms Kelly said:

"The situation at Craigavon Area Hospital has been described to me as 'dire' and 'in a critical state.'  

"They're very distressed the staffing level, their inability to give patients the level of attention that they need."

"Other colleagues are not giving support of being relieved from their duties for short periods for their breaks."

In response, the Southern Trust said:

“There are now rapidly escalating pressures across health trusts in Northern Ireland. In The Southern Trust, our hospitals and facilities are currently experiencing extreme pressures as a direct consequence of the rise in Covid-19 in our community.

We urgently appeal to the public to help by only attending the Emergency Department if they require emergency care and treatment.”