Should I go to the hospital / E.R. ?
PLEASE DON'T GO TO THE HOSPITAL / E.R. IF YOU HAVE ANY RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS (COUGHING / SNEEZING / RUNNY NOSE / SORE THROAT)
It may not be the coronavirus/COVID-19, but there's no way to tell it apart from other viral illnesses, especially in the early stages, and you're putting other patients at risks, including the hospital and E.R. staff, nurses and doctors, who also have families.
If you are NOT having any signs of upper or lower respiratory illness (fever, cough, runny nose, etc.) and your medical condition is urgent or serious, you may go directly to E.R.
However, do exercise caution and common sense... ask yourself "is it really worth it, can it wait?"
WHEN SHOULD I GO TO THE E.R. ?
E.R. stands for Emergency Room. If you had an emergency, wouldn't you want to be prioritized? That's the role and function of the nurses and doctors in E.R. Please don't be upset if you have to wait; it's far better to stay at home and fight this in the comfort of your own bed or couch.
BUT WHAT IF IT'S SERIOUS? WHAT SHOULD I LOOK OUT FOR?
If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately.
Emergency warning signs include*:
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Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
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Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
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New confusion or inability to arouse
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Blue lips or face
*This list is not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.
If you feel you may have symptoms, first go to Alberta Health's Self-Assessment Tool, and when in doubt, phone 811.
This link will take you there: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/journey/covid-19/Pages/COVID-Self-Assessment.aspx