Emergency Care

When should I call 911 or go to the emergency department? Call 911 if you are experiencing potentially life-threatening symptoms.

The following are just some of the symptoms for which you should immediately call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. (Note: This is not a complete list.) · Chest pain or pressure, palpitations, shortness of breath or other symptoms of heart attack or other heart problems

Sudden numbness, weakness, confusion, loss of vision, problems with speech or balance, or other symptoms of stroke

Unexplained or worsening shortness of breath, or other breathing problems

High fever

Intense or unexplained pain

Heavy bleeding or bleeding without an obvious cause

Severe injury or trauma, including deep, large or severe cuts

Possible fractures or broken bones

Any other problems that you consider an emergency

What if I'm afraid to go to the emergency department?

We understand those fears. Our emergency department is able to isolate patients who may have COVID-19 or other infections from those with other emergent problems. Emergency department staff members wear personal protective equipment and place patients who may have COVID-19 in private rooms to ensure infections are not spread from person to person. Each patient room is fully cleaned and disinfected after each patient leaves. Note also that waiting too long to seek care for some health care emergencies is a bigger risk than the chance of contracting COVID-19.