KGH doubles number of intensive care beds in preparation 'for the tsumami to strike us'

Kettering General Hospital has doubled its number of intensive care beds from 15 to 30 in expectation of a peak in Covid-19 cases in the next couple of weeks.

A haunting picture of the quiet ward, awaiting an influx of patients, has been posted by NHS staff on social media.

Speaking on Twitter, surgeons at the Rothwell Road hospital said: "Ramping up our ITU capacity; already double our normal capacity, but we have plans for more.

"Amazing response from all our staff and our estates dept to get everything ready.

"We have felt the earthquake, the waters have left the bay, we are waiting for the tsunami to strike us."

Kettering General Hospital’s Medical Director, Prof Andrew Chilton, said: “We can confirm the Trust has made arrangements to double its intensive care unit capacity from 15 to 30 beds with plans for surge capacity beyond this to prepare for coronavirus.

“We would urge local people to support our preparations by strictly following the guidance being given at a national level regarding staying at home, self-isolation if you are symptomatic, social distancing, and regular hand washing.

“Do not come to hospital unless you have been advised by a medical professional, or members of our own staff, that this is essential.”