It is important to choose the right level of care. The Emergency Department is the right choice if you or a family member is experiencing a life-threatening illness or injury. You will want to go to the Emergency Department to treat:
- Difficulty breathing
- Any symptoms of stroke: face drooping, slurred speech, arm weakness, sudden vision trouble or sudden trouble understanding simple statements.
- A major burn
- Persistent chest pain that radiates to your arm or jaw that may also include sweating, vomiting or shortness of breath
- Severe head injury
- Coughing or vomiting blood
- Severe pain in your chest or upperabdominal pain or pressure
- Pregnancy complications if you are more than 20 weeks along, including contractions/labor with bleeding, leaking fluid or decreased fetal movement.
Children should be brought to the Emergency Department if they are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Head injury
- Significant bone or soft-tissue injuries
- High, persistent fever (38.5°C or 100.4°F)
- Persistent vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Significant lack of fluid intake (especially in a younger child)
- Significant changes in the child’s activity level.
