Wise Use of the Emergency Room

Wise Use of the Emergency Room

by clarkebenefits_admin Posted on: December 16, 2014Categories: HR & Compliance   

An emergency is life-threatening and requires immediate care. Call 911! Be sure to bring along identification, insurance cards, medication and health history information.

Examples of an Emergency:

• Not breathing/having difficulty breathing
• Choking – unable to dislodge item
• Heart attack or stroke
• Broken bones
• Severe bleeding or burns
• Shock

Situations for Routine/Self-Care at Home:

• Minor cuts and sprains
• Fever of 102° F or below
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Upper respiratory infection
• Common neck and back pain

Your Home Emergency Kit:

• Assorted bandages
• Sterile gauze pads and tape
• Moleskin
• Thermometer
• Tweezers
• Moist towelettes
• List of emergency numbers
• Flashlight and batteries
• Nasal bulb syringe
• Scissors
• Elastic wrap

Over-the-Counter Aids:

• Pain and fever medications (ibuprofen/acetaminophen)
• Antacids
• Antibacterial ointments
• Decongestants
• Antihistamines (avoid if pregnant)
• Sunblock
• Anti-itch products
• Anti-diarrheal products

Be Prepared for Emergencies:

• Learn CPR and first aid
• Keep first aid book or card handy
• Have emergency numbers posted
• Know the location of the closest emergency facilities
• Understand your insurance policy
• Have medical history available
• Carry ID and insurance cards at all times