A HOSPITAL has experienced a power cut forcing the redirection of ambulances.
The University Hospital Wishaw said the fault on Tuesday was with the electrical transformer unit.
NHS Lanarkshire said it is currently being powered by back-up generators until normal power is restored.
The health board added generators are able to power the whole hospital - but a small number of diagnostic tests had to be rescheduled.
Heather Knox, NHS Lanarkshire Chief Executive, said: “In the interest of patient safety and as a precautionary measure, we have taken the decision to redirect ambulances to our two other acute hospitals.
“Also, some of our more specialist urgent procedures patients may be directed to facilities in neighbouring health boards. This is in line with our business and emergency continuity plans which have worked to good effect.
“We continue to provide a safe environment for our patients and a safe place of work for all our staff. Unless you have suffered an accident or illness that requires the urgent services of an A&E department then we urge people not to go to A&E at University Hospital Wishaw. If you do, you may be redirected another service or face a lengthy wait while those who meet the urgent criteria are seen first.
“People can get appropriate medical help and advice from a range of other services including the NHS Inform website, their GP practice and local pharmacists and opticians.”
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