Stay informed about the latest updates at East Kent's QEQM Hospital as it transitions to a new alert level in response to ongoing health challenges.
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As of January 20, the East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust has announced a significant update concerning the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate. With the internal critical incident status officially lifted, the facility now operates under a heightened state of alert.
This transition reflects an ongoing commitment to patient care while addressing the current pressures on hospital services.
Despite the lifting of the critical incident declaration, the hospital continues to experience reduced bed availability. Local residents are urged to utilize emergency services judiciously, reserving the emergency department for life-threatening situations.
This careful approach is vital as the hospital continues to manage several patients exhibiting symptoms of norovirus.
Current operational status of QEQM
The hospital’s shift to a critical incident standby status signifies ongoing collaboration with local health partners. The focus remains on ensuring that patients who no longer require acute care are promptly discharged, allowing for better management of community health needs.
This strategy aims to minimize unnecessary hospital admissions wherever possible.
Impact on scheduled procedures and appointments
Patients are advised to keep their scheduled appointments unless contacted for rescheduling by the hospital staff. The ongoing review of planned procedures is necessary as the hospital navigates its current challenges. Sarah Hayes, Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, emphasized the tireless efforts of the staff and the positive influence of the community in supporting the hospital during this busy period.
“Our local community has been instrumental in assisting us,” Hayes noted. “By choosing appropriate services and utilizing alternatives like NHS 111, GP practices, and pharmacies, we can better allocate resources for those in urgent need.”
Guidelines for hospital visitors
Following the reopening of all hospital wards to visitors, certain precautions remain in place to protect both patients and staff from potential norovirus exposure. Visitors are encouraged to adhere to specific guidelines to ensure a safe environment for everyone.
Essential visitor protocols
All visitors should refrain from attending if they exhibit symptoms of any viral infections, including the flu or gastrointestinal issues. The hospital requests that visitors wait a minimum of 48 hours after symptom resolution before visiting. Additionally, it’s recommended to limit visits to one patient at a time, where possible, to lessen the risk of contagion.
Hand hygiene is crucial; all visitors are reminded to sanitize their hands upon entering and leaving the ward. Given the ongoing situation with norovirus, those visiting affected bays should carefully consider their own health and the health of anyone they live with or care for.
For individuals who have loved ones nearing the end of their life or in need of specific support, special arrangements will be made in collaboration with ward management, ensuring that family members can be present when necessary.
Community health resources and support
The hospital encourages the public to continue utilizing available health services wisely. For non-emergency situations, the NHS 111 service provides a valuable resource to guide individuals to the appropriate care. Urgent Treatment Centres are equipped to handle a variety of non-life-threatening issues, including sprains, minor fractures, bites, and cuts.
Despite the lifting of the critical incident declaration, the hospital continues to experience reduced bed availability. Local residents are urged to utilize emergency services judiciously, reserving the emergency department for life-threatening situations. This careful approach is vital as the hospital continues to manage several patients exhibiting symptoms of norovirus.0
Despite the lifting of the critical incident declaration, the hospital continues to experience reduced bed availability. Local residents are urged to utilize emergency services judiciously, reserving the emergency department for life-threatening situations. This careful approach is vital as the hospital continues to manage several patients exhibiting symptoms of norovirus.1
