WATCH: Altnagelvin's Emergency Department 'over run' as 150 patients attend at one time
Patients asked to attend but only if in an emergency
Over 150 patients attended Altnagelvin's Emergency Department (ED) at one time, it has been revealed.
On a post on the Western trust's Facebook page, the public have been urged to only attend the ED in case of an emergency.
Due to the high volume of patients staff at the hospital are 'over run'.
The post stated: "If you need medical help but it is not an emergency, then we ask that you consider your Community Pharmacy, your own GP, Phone First or our Urgent Care and Treatment Centre first.
"The volume of patients in our Emergency Departments makes it very challenging for space. Many patients are having lengthy waits on chairs and on trolleys in corridors.
"If you have a medical or mental health emergency, then you should always call 999 or proceed immediately to your nearest Emergency Department.
"Following your arrival at ED, you will be triaged and categorised according to the seriousness and acuity of your condition. If you are triaged in a less urgent category, then you will face a long wait as we will always tend to the most serious cases first.
"If your condition is urgent rather than an emergency, we encourage you to seek the assistance of your local GP, or call the Phone First service from 8am – midnight where experienced medical professionals will be able to advise you on the best route and location for treatment. The Phone First number is 0300 020 6000."