PATIENTS are being warned to expect widespread disruption to services on Wednesday and Thursday, as nurses stage more strikes in England.
About one out of every four hospitals and community services will be affected by the walkouts, by Royal College of Nursing members, over the two days.
It comes after two days of strikes before Christmas in the pay dispute.
As required under trade union laws, emergency care will be covered during the walkouts from 08:00 to 20:00.
It will mean services such as chemotherapy, kidney dialysis and intensive care will be provided.
The biggest disruption is likely to be in pre-booked treatment such as hernia repair, hip replacements or outpatient clinics, along with community nursing. During last month’s strike action, thousands of treatments and appointments had to be rescheduled.
But GP practices will run as normal, as nurses working in those services are not involved in the strike action.
