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An ER Visit
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Kris was playing dress-up. She put on her mom’s long beads, fancy hat, and high heeled shoes. Kris tripped and fell into a sharp edge of a table. There was a deep cut on her forehead. Mom rushed Kris to the Emergency Room, or ER.
The ER is the place to go when immediate medical help is needed. Kris and her mom went by car. When a person needs to get there more quickly, an ambulance should be called. Most hospitals have an ER. Doctors and nurses are there 24 hours a day to help patients.
People should only visit the ER when help is needed right away. Examples of times to visit the ER include:
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After an accident
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Life-threatening illness
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Middle of the night care is necessary
The ER is not a clinic. It is not a place to get treatment for colds, sore throats, or other more common illnesses. A clinic or Urgent Care is best for most health concerns. In clinics, most doctors are able to see patients within one or two days. If same-day care is needed or the clinic is closed, Urgent Care is a good option. Use the ER only if the health concern is life-threatening.
What can you do if you are not sure if you should go to the clinic, Urgent Care, or the ER? Call your doctor’s office. Even if it is after hours, there is usually someone who will answer the phone. She will suggest which place you should choose based on the health concern.