Primary Care

Medical Emergencies

Knowing what to do in an emergency can sometimes mean the difference between life and death.

1. CALL 911 to get help immediately.

Ask for the police, sheriff, fire department or an ambulance.

2. KEEP A WELL-STOCKED FIRST AID KIT ON HAND.

The following items are recommended:

• Adhesive bandages
• Adhesive tape
• Gauze pads
• Antibiotic ointment
• A cleansing agent (soap and antibiotic towelettes)
• Burn ointment
• Rubbing alcohol
• Cotton balls
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• A bee sting kit

3. KEEP EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS HANDY.

• 911 for the police, sheriff, fire department or an ambulance.
• The Poison Center: (800) 222-1222.
• The phone number for your place of employment. 

4. TEACH YOUR CHILDREN WHO TO CALL AND WHAT TO SAY.

• Make sure children know where to find the list of emergency phone numbers.
• If they call 911, make sure they know to tell the operator whether they need the police, fire department, or an ambulance.
  • The emergency operator will ask for the name of the caller, an address and telephone number.
  • The operator will also want to know why they are calling.
  • Remind your child to listen carefully and to stay on the phone until the operator says it's OK to hang up.

5. MAKE IT EASY FOR EMERGENCY PERSONNEL TO FIND YOUR HOUSE.  

• House numbers should be large enough so drivers coming in either direction can see them from the street.
• Put house numbers near an outside light to ensure visibility

6. KEEP A CLEAR AND UP-TO-DATE RECORD OF IMMUNIZATIONS.

• In an emergency, the doctor needs as much information as possible to help diagnose your problem.

7. KEEP A HANDY RECORD OF MEDICAL CONDITIONS, MEDICATIONS AND DOSAGES.

• Having this information at your fingertips can help assure proper treatment and prevent serious drug interactions.

8. MAKE A LIST OF ALLERGIES AND REACTIONS.

• Alerting the doctor to any known allergies or reactions can make it easier to decide on a course of treatment.
• Wear medical ID bracelets to inform of any allergies or chronic conditions

9. KNOW YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY'S POLICY ON EMERGENCY ROOM CARE.

• Some insurance companies require that you call first for approval.
• Carry all necessary insurance cards and phone numbers with you.

10. LEARN FIRST AID

• Classes teaching CPR, the Heimlich maneuver, and other basic first aid techniques are offered on a regular basis.
• Check with your Prevea primary care physician, St. Mary's Hospital Medical Center, St. Vincent Hospital, your area fire department or local chapter of the American Red Cross for more information.

Source: Emergency Medical Services for Children