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Don't Wait With Health Emergencies

Published in Trauma Services, Emergency Services, Stroke Care, For the Health of It Author: Leah Roering,APRN,CNP

It is understandable that with coronavirus (COVID-19) present in our community, that people would want to avoid the emergency room. But health emergencies still happen. And when they do, the emergency room is still the best place for those needing life-saving care.

May is American Stroke Awareness Month. And a stroke is a great example of a condition where people cannot wait.

Every minute matters when one is experiencing a stroke. Not only can brain cells die or become damaged within minutes during a stroke, but some treatments that improve one’s chances of recovery need to be started within three hours after symptoms begin.

Familiarize yourself with the stroke symptoms with the graphic below. If someone you see shows these symptoms, call 9-1-1 and get them emergency medical care.

Other conditions/symptoms where people should still go to the emergency room for care at this time include:

  • Chest pain
  • Broken bones
  • High fever
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Severe bleeding
  • Intense abdominal pain
  • Choking

When in doubt, call 9-1-1. You never know when your quick actions could be the difference in saving a life.

Helpful COVID-19 Information

• Review more information on considering medical care if you are experiencing respiratory illness or COVID-19 symptoms.
• Educate yourself on the range of COVID-19 symptoms
• CentraCare encourages everyone to wear homemade face coverings while in the community. Learn how to make your own face mask.
• Donations of facemasks are currently needed. Learn more how to help.