Southport Hospital's A&E Chaos: Wife Waited 25 Hours on Trolley

Ralph Upton, aged 73, shared the distressing experience of his wife waiting for over 25 hours on a trolley in the A&E department at Southport Hospital due to suspected appendicitis. Mrs. Upton, 70, was among several elderly patients enduring the long wait in a crowded corridor. The hospital acknowledged the situation, attributing extended stays in A&E to peak times.

Despite a note from their GP indicating the urgency of Mrs. Upton's case, the couple faced standard triage procedures and prolonged waiting times. Mr. Upton described the chaotic scene in the overcrowded waiting room, where privacy was scarce, and medical examinations were conducted in public view.

After nearly 25 hours on a trolley in a narrow corridor, Mrs. Upton was finally moved to a ward. Hospital records confirmed a total wait of 33 hours, including 25 hours in the 'escalation unit.' The hospital spokesperson acknowledged the high demand for emergency care services and assured that patient care remained a priority.

Mr. Upton expressed concern over the strained conditions in A&E, emphasizing the need for systemic improvements to ensure patient dignity and efficient care. He highlighted the impending challenges with the approaching winter season and urged for solutions to prevent overcrowding and prolonged trolley waits.

According to the source: The Mirror.