If it's an emergency, don't delay treatment.
Across the country, emergency physicians are seeing fewer patients in the ER. Whether it’s a worry about potentially being exposed to the virus, or not wanting to burden the health care system, more people are avoiding the emergency room and putting their health at great risk.
“We strongly urge you not to wait and delay treatment out of fear,” says John Brooks, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at McLaren Port Huron. “Our Emergency Room has a screening process to quickly identify any suspected COVID-19 patient and isolate them from other patients, and our team is here and ready to provide emergency care.”
McLaren Port Huron continues to do what’s best for patients and employees by following the most current CDC safety guidelines, including:
- Screening everyone who enters the hospital. All patients, visitors, and staff are screened for signs and symptoms of coronavirus before entering the facility. Anyone experiencing symptoms are prohibited from entering and directed to the appropriate level of care
- Supporting social distancing. Seating is limited in in certain areas to create space between those waiting for care.
- Personal Protection. McLaren Port Huron caregivers and support staff are wearing additional protective equipment to keep patients and themselves safe when providing care. Everyone who enters the facility is asked to wear a face mask.
- Additional Sanitization. McLaren Port Huron is adding cleaning processes throughout the hospital to enhance its already robust sanitization protocols.
When to go to the emergency department
If someone is experiencing an injury or a medical condition that requires prompt medical attention, call 911 or go to the nearest ER.
Conditions that require prompt medical attention include:
- Broken bones
- Troubled breathing
- Chest pain
- Fainting/Passing out
- Deep wounds, heavy bleeding
- Head injuries
- Seizures
- Persistent vomiting
Rapid treatment for minor emergencies
Individuals who are experiencing non-life-threatening conditions may also seek treatment in the ER. McLaren Port Huron offers convenient online appointment scheduling for minor emergencies. Patients can register online and wait at home until their appointment time.
Some minor conditions that require immediate, non-life-threatening treatment may include:
- Rash
- Minor infections
- Fever
- Nausea
- Minor wounds/injuries
If symptoms are serious, do not wait or avoid the hospital. To learn more about emergency services at McLaren Port Huron or to schedule an appointment for a minor emergency, visit www.mclaren.org/pher.