University Hospital Limerick is urging people not to attend the hospital in Dooradoyle, unless absolutely necessary, and to use alternative services instead, due to "exceptionally high demand" this weekend.
There are currently a significant number of admitted patients being accommodated on trolleys at UHL.
"We are urging patients and service users to use all available alternative services where possible," HSE Mid West said in a statement. "Injury Units and Out-of-Hours GP services are fully operational and can provide care for non-life-threatening conditions."
"The Emergency Department at UHL is open 24-7 for patients with life-threatening emergencies, however patients with less urgent injuries or illnesses are likely to wait substantial waiting times."
The appeal comes days after a HIQA report said there is not enough bed capacity at UHL to meet the demand of the population in the region.
It said: "The core issue is that there are not enough inpatient beds in HSE Mid-West which are capable of treating the sickest patients who present for urgent or emergency care.
"We recommended immediate action and investment to address current risks to patient safety in the shortest timeframe and safest way possible."
UHL has thanked the public for their patience at this time of exceptionally high demand for hospital services, and has ask them "to continue supporting us in ensuring emergency care is prioritised for the sickest, most seriously injured and frailest patients".
It said Injury Units are open 8am to 8pm at Ennis, Nenagh and St John's hospitals with overall patient experience times averaging less than two hours.
Surge capacity is open across hospital sites and additional staff are rostered at weekends to increase discharges.
The statement on behalf of HSE Mid West also apologised to "every patient who is currently facing an unacceptably long waiting time for a bed". It said staff are doing everything possible to provide the best possible care while patients wait.
"We would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and sincerely thank all hospital staff for their professionalism, dedication, and compassionate care during this period of exceptional activity."
It said it continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates as necessary.
