When Should I Go to the Emergency Room?

Emergencies can happen at any time. That’s when you can count on the emergency departments of Covenant Health. We’re here for you 24/7/365.

If you experience symptoms of stroke, heart attack, serious injury or other life-altering medical conditions, the hospital emergency department is the safest place to be.  No one should delay emergency medical care because of concerns about COVID-19. 

Covenant Health hospitals are taking many precautions to keep our patients safe from COVID-19, but our commitment to life-saving care hasn’t changed. In a medical emergency, don’t wait – the ER is open 24/7/365.

The emergency teams of Covenant Health and Team Health remind you: In a medical emergency, don’t wait – call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. We’re here for you.

Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room if you experience any of the following:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Weakness/numbness on one side
• Slurred speech
• Fainting
• Severe burns or bleeding
• Head or eye injury
• Concussion
• Confusion
• Broken bones and dislocated joints
• Fever with a rash
• Seizures
• Severe cuts that may require stitches
• Severe cold or flu symptoms
• Vaginal bleeding with pregnancy
• Severe allergic reactions such as hives or swelling of the face, lips, eyes or tongue 

Covenant Health emergency physician Peter Kah, MD, says that hospital emergency departments are taking extra precautions to keep patients safe from COVID-19. “If you have an emergency, it is safe to come to the ED and we will take care of you,” he says. “If care is delayed, outcomes may be much worse down the road.” 

Remember: If you or a loved one experience a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest hospital for help.

Note:  If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath or fever, contact your healthcare provider. If these symptoms are severe and require emergency treatment, please call the hospital emergency department before you arrive so the care team can be prepared to assist you.