This article first appeared on Galway Bay FM

University Hospital Galway has postponed some elective procedures as it experiences extreme pressure today.

The hospital is urging the public to consider all care options as it deals with very high attendances.

248 people attended the Emergency Department yesterday and there are high numbers tracking again today.

The high number of people attending who need to be admitted for ongoing treatment means there’s pressure on bed availability.

The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation says there are 73 patients on trolleys awaiting a bed.

While some elective procedures are being postponed, urgent time sensitive cases are being prioritised.

Patients are being contacted directly if their procedure is being postponed.

The hospital is urging the public to use alternative healthcare services for treatment such as GP, GP Out of Hours, the Roscommon Injury Unit and pharmacies when appropriate.

It stresses that Emergency Departments are always available to treat seriously ill patients and the sickest patients are seen first.

People with less severe injuries and symptoms may have to wait to be seen.