Not sure when you should go to the nearest Banner Health Emergency department? The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) provides the following warning signs that may indicate a medical emergency and signal when you should proceed to the nearest Emergency department.
- Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath
- Chest or upper abdominal pain or pressure
- Fainting, sudden dizziness, weakness
- Changes in vision
- Confusion or changes in mental status
- Any sudden or severe pain
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Coughing or vomiting blood
- Suicidal feelings
- Difficulty speaking
- Shortness of breath
- Unusual abdominal pain
The ACEP also notes that “children have unique medical problems and may display different symptoms than adults. Symptoms that are serious for a child may not be as serious for an adult. Children may also be unable to communicate their condition, which means an adult will have to interpret the behavior. Always get immediate medical attention if you think your child is having a medical emergency.” For more information, go to www.acep.org/webportal/PatientsConsumers/.