A situation of concern has been identified at an NHS hospital due to an ongoing issue. Arrowe Park Hospital, affiliated with Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, had to halt elective procedures last week to investigate the matter. The trust has responded by purchasing new instruments and borrowing equipment from nearby NHS facilities.
An internal communication obtained by the Liverpool Echo mentioned that the trust is reaching out to other NHS trusts in the area for assistance in managing the disruption. Patients were redirected to Aintree Hospital and the Countess of Chester Hospital during this period.
A message circulated among staff at Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust highlighted the ongoing problem with surgical instruments in the Sterile Service Department. Patient safety was cited as the primary concern, leading to the temporary suspension of elective activities while investigations were ongoing. The declaration of a critical incident was made yesterday, prompting the implementation of command and control measures.
To mitigate the impact on patients, the hospital has acquired additional surgical instruments and is collaborating with regional partners to secure more supplies. The incident has understandably caused worry among patients and their families, with one individual expressing concern over delayed surgeries due to equipment safety issues.
A spokesperson from Wirral University Teaching Hospital emphasized that a Critical Incident was declared due to unresolved issues with surgical instruments in the Sterile Services Department. Patient safety remains the utmost priority, leading to the temporary pause in elective procedures. The trust has detailed plans in place to manage the situation and is seeking support from other trusts to minimize disruptions for patients.
