Emergency

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When Should I Come to Emergency?

Your health is our priority. There are no set rules defining when you should come to the emergency department. Below is a list of common problems we treat. This is not an extensive list - it is a general guideline of problems best handled in the emergency department.

In adults, some of the most serious health concerns that require emergency treatment are:

• breathing difficulties
• chest pain
• unexpected heavy breathing of any sort
• sudden onset of weakness, dizziness
• loss of consciousness
• broken bones
• major sprains
• severe abdominal pain
• injuries to eyes
• sudden change in speech or vision

You should consider bringing a child to the emergency department if any of the above conditions are experienced, or if the child shows evidence of the following:

• persistent fever(>38.5 ºC/100.4 ºF)
• persistent vomiting/diarrhea
• significant lack of fluid intake ~ particularly young children
• significant change in activity level

It is the philosophy of the Grand River Hospital that if there is any doubt about seeking treatment, it is best to err on the side of caution, particularly where children are concerned.