CHEO says it has seen a “spring weekend like no other” in its 48-year history as its emergency department fills with patients, leaving the hospital with a shortage of beds.
In a long Twitter post, Eastern Ontario Children’s Hospital said more than the average number of young people came to the hospital on Friday with “viruses, injuries and injuries that are more severe than normal,” but there were no free beds for them.
In the last six weeks, our inpatient wards have been overcrowded. Again with more young people than normal who are sicker than normal. COVID, flu, surgery and many other reasons – all this makes the children stay in the hospital for one night. +
– CHEO Ottawa (@CHEO) June 12, 2022
“In the last six weeks, our inpatient wards have been full. Again with more young people than normal who are sicker than normal. “COVID, the flu, surgery and many other reasons – all this makes the children stay in the hospital for one night,” said CHEO.
Influenza cases marked a rare spring jump in Canada following the easing of public health measures designed to curb the COVID-19 pandemic. The Canadian Public Health Agency reported more than 1,300 cases of influenza across the country between May 29 and June 4 this year. Last year there was a single case between May 23 and June 19.
PHAC also says that while the number of reported pediatric flu-related hospitalizations has declined in recent weeks, it remains above typical levels for this time of year.
CHEO is reporting its busiest May ever for its emergency department, and June could also be a record month for admission.
“Yesterday, for the first time anyone can remember, we had * 16 * patients who were admitted who didn’t have a bed to go to. So they stayed out. Some in almost 48 hours. ”
Our emergency department has just had the busiest May ever and is on track to set a record for June. Yesterday, for the first time anyone can remember, we had * 16 * patients who were admitted who did not have a bed for a bed. So they stayed out. Some for almost 48 hours. +
– CHEO Ottawa (@CHEO) June 12, 2022
This had a “blocking effect,” says CHEO. People coming to the emergency room who did not need immediate help had long waits and some of the planned procedures for next week had to be canceled or rescheduled.
“Obviously, we are not doing this lightly. It hurts us to do it. But this is the reality. We just have more people in need right now than we have space, beds and people, ”said CHEO.
Hospital staff are urging families to consider alternatives to the emergency department, such as family doctors or clinics where possible; however, patients will not be rejected.
“If you have to come to CHEO, our staff and medical staff will do everything in their power to provide you with the world-class care you deserve,” says CHEO. “Our first-line people are always here for you. This has not changed in 48 years and will never change. Again, if you need to come to CHEO, please do so. ”
You can check the CHEO website for advice on when your child needs to travel to the hospital.
We just wanted to give you an idea of why the waits are longer now than anyone would like and why you might want to explore other options. Thanks for your support and understanding. * end * pic.twitter.com/XD3TlYiTq3
– CHEO Ottawa (@CHEO) June 12, 2022
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