The Isle of Wight NHS Trust has praised its staff for their outstanding professionalism during a major incident triggered by a horrific crash on Forest Road, Newport.
A severe collision involving two cars and a bus resulted in multiple casualties, many of whom were seriously injured. In response, the NHS Trust quickly declared a Major Incident to handle the surge of patients arriving at the hospital.
The Major Incident declaration mobilised additional staff from across the Trust to assist with the influx of casualties alongside existing patients. Community outreach workers from Isle of Wight Council were also called in to support hospital wards, allowing nurses and doctors to concentrate on emergency care.
Maggie Oldham, Chief Executive of Isle of Wight NHS Trust, expressed her sorrow and gratitude: “Our thoughts go out to everyone involved in yesterday’s tragedy, especially the family and friends of the person who sadly lost their life. I am extremely thankful and proud of all our staff for their superb professionalism and care. Everyone rallied together, whether on duty or not.”
Emergency services responded promptly with eight ambulances and four air ambulances attending the scene, supported by specialist clinicians, fire crews, and police. Despite best efforts, one person was pronounced dead at the scene.
A total of eighteen patients required triage, treatment, and transport. Two were airlifted to Southampton General Hospital. Sixteen were taken to St Mary’s Emergency Department, with one patient later transferred to Brighton Hospital’s major trauma centre. One patient required hospital admission.
The swift and coordinated response by NHS staff and emergency teams was crucial in managing this tragic event with professionalism and care.
Originally published by UKNIP.
