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When to call 911 - Medical Emergencies
Difficulty breathing/shortness of breath or breathing has stopped
Choking
Pain/tightness/pressure in chest
Uncontrolled or heavy bleeding
Severe/sudden pain
Broken/Fractured bone
Drug overdose
Poisoning
Severe/persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Vomiting blood
Fainting, dizziness, unconsciousness
Seizures
Allergic Reaction
Confusion/mental change
Sudden weakness, numbness, tingling in arms, face, leg
Remember these are just guidelines. When in doubt, don't delay, call 911.
Things to keep in mind when calling 911:
Try to remain calm, speak clearly and calmly. You may be the only source of information to the 911 operator. It's important that you can be understood. Trained emergency personnel will be dispatched to your location as quickly and as safely as possible.
Tell the operator your location, the circumstances, name, & phone number and any other pertinent information such as age of patient, number of patients, if more than one.
If you are in immediate danger, remove yourself and family first if situation allows.
When you call 911 stay on the line with the operator until you are told to hang up. Your assistance may be needed to guide emergency personnel to your location.
Don't leave the scene until emergency personnel arrives.
If you are unable to speak or are incapacitated call 911 and stay on the line. Your call can be traced by 911. Emergency personnel will be sent to your location.
While waiting for emergency personnel, if possible:
Stay calm, try to keep patient calm, awake, and warm.
Do not give patient anything to eat or drink.
Do not move patient unless patient is in danger.
Turn on an outside light if available or send someone outside to alert emergency personnel.
Contain any pets in another part of the house.
Gather or have written down patient medications, allergy information, and medical history.
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