Blackpool Victoria Hospital faced a major incident today when severe flooding and power cuts led to the evacuation of expectant mothers and newborns from the maternity ward. The flooding caused by heavy rainfall caused a power outage in four wards of the women’s and children’s unit, including the maternity ward and the special care baby unit. This prompted the hospital staff to quickly move the patients to different sections of the hospital to ensure their safety and receive the necessary care.
Unfortunately, the back-up generator failed to start, leaving medical machines inoperable. As a result, appointments, scans, and elective surgeries had to be cancelled. Expectant mothers who were due to give birth were also affected by the incident.
The hospital suspects that the power outage was caused by an overspill of sewage that came into contact with the electrical distribution board. Staff members worked tirelessly to mitigate the localized flooding and are now focusing on clearing the standing water from the affected areas.
The hospital’s chief executive, Trish Armstrong-Child, declared a “Major Incident Level 2” and reassured the public that all patients and babies were safe and receiving appropriate care. She emphasized that the hospital’s urgent care pathway is currently under significant pressure and urged people to consider using NHS111 for advice and guidance instead of rushing to the Emergency Department.
Damian Vanner, a father-to-be whose pregnant wife was evacuated during induced labor, described the scene in the maternity ward as “complete chaos.” The situation caused anxiety and discomfort for the expecting parents, as they had to be relocated to an overwhelmed day surgery ward.
The hospital is working closely with various teams and partners to ensure the smooth operation of patient care. Patients with scheduled appointments are advised to attend as planned unless contacted individually to reschedule.
FAQ
1. What led to the evacuation of expectant mothers and babies at Blackpool Victoria Hospital?
Severe flooding and power cuts caused by heavy rainfall led to the evacuation of expectant mothers and babies at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.
2. What caused the power outage in the maternity ward?
The power outage in the maternity ward was caused by an overspill of sewage that came into contact with the electrical distribution board.
3. Were any medical machines affected by the power outage?
Yes, the power outage rendered medical machines inoperable, leading to the cancellation of appointments, scans, and elective surgeries.
4. Is the hospital taking appropriate measures to ensure patient care?
Yes, the hospital’s chief executive has declared a “Major Incident Level 2” and stated that all patients and babies are safe and receiving appropriate care. The hospital is working closely with various teams and partners to address the situation.