Latest: Over 25,000 patients affected by strike asked not to reschedule appointments with hospitals

Latest: Patients who have had their medical appointments cancelled today are being urged not to make contact with hospitals to reschedule.

Update - 7.35pm: Patients who have had their medical appointments cancelled today are being urged not to make contact with hospitals to reschedule.

The HSE says it will be in touch with arrangements for over 25,000 people affected by the nurses strike.