THE critical incident declared at St Mary's Hospital last week has been stood down today (Thursday).

The Isle of Wight NHS Trust has taken the decision to stand down the critical incident that was called in response to sustained pressure on its services.

The trust said, following a number of actions to enable more patients who no longer needed hospital care to be discharged and "some incredible hard work by staff and the support received from partners and public", it has seen reductions in pressure across some services. 

Patients and members of the public continue to be asked to use services wisely to ensure those with the greatest need can access care and support.

The critical incident was called on Friday due to high levels of demand and difficulties in discharging people into social care meaning that St Mary’s Hospital was close to capacity.

The trust declared a critical incident because it allowed it to take additional steps to maintain safe services for the people who need them.

Steve Parker, Medical Director for Isle of Wight NHS Trust, said: “We will continue to prioritise patients with the highest level of need and ensure that we can safely manage emergency care. 

"We are still facing significant pressure, although this has reduced somewhat since last Friday and enabled us to stand down the critical incident.

“This is no easy task and requires the support of our staff, partners and the public. Despite an improvement in waiting times for ambulances, hospital bed admissions and discharges, staff at the front line remain under significant and sustained pressure in their efforts to provide safe care.

"We are grateful to everyone who has taken steps to help us and continue to praise our dedicated and determined teams who have once again been working extra shifts to support the wider Island community.

“It is still important that families and loved ones support us by collecting patients as soon as they are ready to be discharged.”

The Trust would like to apologise to any patients who have experienced long waiting times or have been affected by disruptions to the normal service as a result.

The Trust would also like to reassure patients and the public that, despite the challenges faced, essential services remain fully open for anyone who needs them so if urgent medical help is required, people should still come forward.

The public can help manage these periods of demand by ensuring they are seeking help from the most appropriate health services, and only calling 999 or attending A&E for serious accidents and genuine emergencies.  If you are unwell, visit NHS 111 online for 24/7 advice about the most appropriate care for your needs. For other non-urgent cases when needing medical advice and it’s not an emergency, speak to your GP practice or a pharmacist.

The Trust is also appealing to Islanders and visitors to be extra careful in the current hot weather and to watch out for sunstroke and dehydration and reminding people to check on neighbours, friends and family in the heatwave. 

You can find further advice on how to stay safe during the hot weather on the NHS website.