The Covid outbreak in the surgical ward at the Western Isles Hospital continues to impact services.
The ward is still closed to new scheduled patients as a result of a number of individuals linked to the ward testing positive for Covid.
All planned theatre and endoscopies are cancelled at present.
The coronavirus spike in the ward hospital emerged a week ago, immediately after a similar situation in the medical ward, putting pressure on services.
People needing emergency surgery and urgent endoscopies will be treated said the isles’ health board.
Planned procedures in Ospadal Uibhist agus Bharraigh are not affected.
Only essential visiting is allowed at present in surgical ward.
Fiona McKenzie, NHS Western Isles chief operating officer, said: “The closure of the ward to non-emergency admissions was essential to help prevent further spread of Covid-19 within the ward and to protect our patients and staff.
“Regretfully we have had no other option in the circumstances than to take the decision to postpone planned theatre and endoscopy activity for a short period.
“We will resume these services as quickly as we can, and would like to apologise sincerely to any patients affected.”
More patients face surgery delays due to hospital Covid outbreak
7 April 2022
