When to Go to the ED

When an injury happens, it can be hard to decide where to go for care. Some problems need emergency care right away. Others are better suited for urgent care or your health care provider. 

But how can you know what’s an emergency and what’s not? This sample guide can help you make a safe, quick choice so you get the care you need when you need it.

When should I go to the emergency room?

The emergency department handles life-threatening conditions and serious injuries. They are open 24/7 and have a wide range of specialists, tools and lifesaving equipment. 

IF YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, PLEASE CALL 911.

Here are some warning signs that may mean you are having a medical emergency and should go to the nearest emergency department.

• Chest pain, pressure or squeezing that doesn’t go away
• Trouble breathing, shortness of breath or sudden problems catching your breath
• Signs of stroke: having trouble walking, blurry vision, face drooping, arm weakness, trouble speaking or understanding speech 
• Passing out or collapsing
• Severe bleeding that won’t stop or a deep wound that looks worrisome (a deep cut that is close to a joint or causes an inability to move the area normally)
• Unusual or intense headache that comes on fast (different from a regular headache)
• Severe abdominal pain (especially with a fever)
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea that causes you to become dehydrated
• Seizure, fainting or loss of consciousness (passing out)
• Major trauma or a serious head injury (for example, after a fall or car crash)
• Large or deep burns
• Coughing or throwing up blood
• Injury to your neck or spine (especially with loss of feeling or movement)
• Thoughts of harming yourself, severe confusion or sudden mental changes
• Swallowing or inhaling harmful chemicals, substances or foods
• Electric shock or lightning strike
• Smoke inhalation

These symptoms can be life-threatening and need immediate care. 

Why chest pain and stroke symptoms are urgent

Chest pain can be a sign that your heart is not getting enough blood. Getting help can save your life and limit heart damage. 

When it comes to a stroke, every second counts. Delaying care, even by a few minutes, can cause serious damage. The sooner you get treatment, the better your chance of recovery. If you or someone nearby shows BE-FAST signs, call 911 right away. 

When to choose urgent care instead

Urgent care is a good choice when your problem needs quick attention but isn’t life-threatening or when your health care provider’s office is closed. Reasons to go to urgent care are:

• Cold, flu or COVID-19 symptoms
• Mild asthma flare-ups or minor allergic reactions (if breathing is OK)
• Hand, wrist, finger or ankle injuries or sprains
• Fevers without a rash or severe symptoms
• Minor burns or skin infections
• Ear pain, sore throat, cough, cold or flu symptoms
• Urinary tract infection (painful, frequent peeing)

Urgent care centers usually cost less and have shorter wait times than an ED for these issues. But if a problem is severe, getting to the ED is safer. 

Note: Many urgent care centers offer X-rays and basic wound care, including stitches. If your injury looks severe or a bone is clearly deformed, go to the ED.

Find a Banner Urgent Care near you.

When to see your health care provider

Your health care provider should be your first choice for routine medical care and for urgent illness or injuries that are not life-threatening. 

Contact your provider for: 

• Medication refills and routine follow-ups
• Regular check-ups, screenings and vaccinations
• Non-emergency health concerns or illnesses
• Managing chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure or asthma
• Follow-up after an ED or urgent care visit

If you are unsure whether to see your provider or urgent care, call your provider’s office. They can advise you based on your history.

Find a Banner Health specialist near you.

When to take your child to the emergency department

Children’s medical problems are different than those of adults. They also may show different symptoms. 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.

Our pediatric emergency teams know how to care for kids of every age and calm worried parents.

Learn more about pediatric ED care at Banner Health.

What to expect

• You’ll be evaluated: By law, every hospital that accepts Medicare must provide a medical screening exam to anyone who comes to the ER. 
• Ability to pay doesn’t matter: You will be seen and screened regardless of your insurance status or financial situation. Hospitals offer financial assistance programs to help you cover the cost of emergency care.
• Stabilization and transfer if needed: If your condition requires more specialized care, the hospital must help arrange safe transfers to another facility.

Know your rights about EMTALA (Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act).

What to bring to the emergency department

Do not delay care, but when possible, bring the following with you to the emergency room:

• Photo identification (ID) and insurance card (if you have them, but not needed to receive care)
• A list of medicines and allergies 
• A short note about your symptoms, how long they’ve lasted and any recent injuries
• A phone charger and something to stay comfortable while you wait

Why choose Banner Health for emergency care

With board-certified emergency physicians, advanced diagnostics and seamless connection to follow-up care, Banner Health delivers expert, compassionate emergency services. 

Find emergency care near me.