Tallaght Hospital experiencing “unexpected increase” in numbers attending A&E department

There were 36 patients waiting on trolleys for beds in Tallaght Hospital today – the highest number at any hospital in the capital.

According to the figures released by the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, this is an increase of 15 patients compared to yesterday when 21 people were awaiting beds, with Tallaght Hospital saying this is down to an “unexpected increase in the number of patients attending the Accident and Emergency Department in the last few days”.

The hospital also had the highest number of patients awaiting beds in the Dublin area last Thursday and Friday, according to the INMO.

In a statement from Tallaght Hospital issued to Echo.ie today, a spokesperson said: “Tallaght Hospital aims to provide the highest standard of care to patients at all times.

“There has been an unexpected increase in the number of patients attending the Emergency Department in the last few days, which is not reflective of anything specific.

“Patients are reminded to attend their GP in this first instance and avoid attending the Emergency Department unless in the case of emergency.

“The Hospital thanks the public for their co-operation during this busy period.”