Emergency Care During COVID-19
At Wellstar, we know many people are anxious about the COVID-19 outbreak. But medical emergencies such as heart attacks, strokes or serious behavioral health issues don’t stop during a pandemic. While we are on the frontline fighting COVID-19, our expert medical team is still equipped to safely treat patients with other life-threatening conditions.
Don't Delay, Call 911 Right Away
Don’t be afraid to call 911 or get treatment at the hospital. Calling 911 is the fastest way to get immediate medical attention and the best chance of surviving or saving a life. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, waiting to get help may result in worsening symptoms, permanent damage or, in extreme cases, even death.
Don’t take a chance with your health. If you are experiencing the warning signs of a life-threatening medical emergency such as a heart attack, stroke or other issues, call 911 immediately. Emergency medical symptoms include:
- Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath
- Chest or upper abdominal pain or pressure
- Fainting, sudden dizziness, weakness
- Numbness or drooping in the face
- Numbness or weakness in the arm
- Changes in vision
- Difficulty speaking
- Confusion, slurred speech, difficulty walking
- Changes in mental status or unusual behavior
- Any sudden or severe pain
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Coughing or vomiting blood
- Suicidal or homicidal feelings
- Unusual abdominal pain
For people experiencing a heart attack or stroke, every second counts. Delaying medical attention can lead to serious health issues such as:
- Damage or death of part of the heart muscle
- Weakened heart
- Scar tissue which decreases the heart’s ability to pump blood
- Paralysis on one side of the body
- Speech, language or vision problems
- Memory loss
Don’t Wait to Get Treatment for Children
Medical emergencies are just as serious for children as they are for adults. Don't delay care if your child is experiencing any of the following:
- Fracture
- Head injury
- Gastrointestinal (GI) obstruction or severe abdominal pain
- Acute asthma
- Pulmonary issues
- Diabetic emergency
- Severe allergic reaction
- Seizure
We’re Here to Protect You
At Wellstar, the safety of our patients and team members is our top priority. If you are dealing with an urgent medical emergency, staying safe doesn’t mean staying away from the hospital.
Our team of dedicated healthcare professionals provide quality and safe medical care to patients every day. As a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, Wellstar facilities have put additional measures in place to protect you from infection.
To learn more, visit our COVID-19 resource page.