Three hospital operating theatres closed after mechanical failure

Three of the seven operating theatres at Jersey's General Hospital have been temporarily closed following a mechanical failure.

In a statement, Simon West, Medical Director Health and Care Jersey, said:

"Health and Care Jersey can reassure Islanders that emergency, urgent and maternity care continue to run as normal, and that patient safety remains our highest priority. There is no risk to patient safety, and services have been adjusted as a precaution.

"Due to high temperatures, 3 of the 7 operating theatres at the general hospital have been temporarily closed while essential maintenance work is carried out due to a mechanical failure.

"Established contingency plans have been enacted, enabling services to continue safely while the issue is resolved. There is sufficient capacity in the other operating theatres to maintain emergency, urgent and maternity care.

"Some planned operations and procedures have had to be postponed and will be rescheduled.

"Repairs are underway involving specialist external contractors. The aim is for the 3 operating theatres to be back up and running as soon as possible. We are very sorry for the inconvenience this may cause.

"All affected patients are being contacted directly. Each patient is being clinically reviewed and prioritised, ensuring those with the greatest need continue to receive care as quickly as possible. While there may be a short-term impact on waiting times, rebooking is already underway and every effort is being made to minimise delays.

"While this is not a major incident, it does highlight the challenges that can arise in an ageing hospital facility, particularly during periods of unusually warm weather. We are doing everything possible to restore full services safely and as quickly as possible.

"Looking after the wellbeing of both patients and staff during this period of warm weather is a key priority. Additional support measures are in place, including portable air conditioning units to estates across HCJ, where possible, guidance issued to teams, regular wellbeing checks by managers, and the provision of refreshments. This has included distributing ice pops across services to help staff and patients stay cool and comfortable, alongside access to cold drinks and rest areas.

"We are grateful to Islanders for their patience and understanding and thank all our staff for their continued dedication and commitment during these difficult heatwave conditions."

More to follow.