NHS Lanarkshire is asking people to help with physical distancing in hospital emergency departments.

There has been a large increase in the number of people attending the emergency departments at NHS Lanarkshire’s acute hospitals in the past few days.

This, along with patients being accompanied by relatives, has made physical distancing very difficult.

Dr John Keaney, NHS Lanarkshire acute medical director and consultant in emergency medicine, said: “We want to provide the best and safest care to our patients. Part of this is making sure our hospitals, in common with the rest of the community, comply with the national physical distancing guidance for the safety of patients, staff and the public.

“People can help us with this by attending the emergency department on their own in almost all cases. The only exceptions are children and vulnerable adults, who should be accompanied by one adult.

“If someone has driven a relative to hospital, we would ask that they remain in their car or collect them after they have been discharged.

“With your help, we can help reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection in our hospitals.”

People who need immediate medical assistance should call their GP practice, or 111 out of hours, and in emergencies dial 999.

Emergency departments should still be used for serious conditions such as suspected heart attacks, strokes, severe asthma or diabetic collapse.

Other community health services, including GP practices and pharmacists, are still available for other health needs and concerns.

NHS Lanarkshire also has minor injuries units. More details are on the NHS Lanarkshire website at www.nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk

Dr Keaney said: “Your community pharmacy and GP practices are open. The first appointment may be by telephone or video call however this is an important step in finding out if you, or someone you know, needs urgent medical help.”