Vim & Vigor - Fall 2013 - University of Virginia - (Page 34)

ER Visit Anatomy of an Knowing what to do in an emergency and what to expect in the ER can make both less frightening EMERGENCY! Even reading the word can get your heart racing. While worrying about emergencies is pointless (who knows when one will occur?), knowing how to handle them is not only valuable—it may even save your life or the life of a loved one. There are 136 million visits to U.S. emergency departments every year, so being prepared makes good sense. When to Go BY BOB COOPER 34 FA L L 2 013 ILLUSTRATIONS BY PETER HOEY The most common reasons to seek emergency treatment, according to the American College of Emergency Physicians, are: • Difﬁculty breathing/shortness of breath • Chest or upper abdominal pain or pressure • Fainting, sudden dizziness, weakness • Changes in vision • Disorientation, sudden change in mental status • Any sudden or severe pain • Uncontrolled bleeding • Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea • Coughing or vomiting blood • Suicidal feelings • Difﬁculty speaking • New type of abdominal pain For minor illnesses or injuries, it’s usually best to visit your regular doctor—unless it’s an evening or weekend and you feel you can’t wait. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution. But should you go to the ER or call 911? Call 911 when there is a threat to “life or limb,” the victim could worsen en route to the hospital, moving the victim could cause further injury, or paramedic skills are needed.

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Vim & Vigor - Fall 2013 - University of Virginia

Vim & Vigor - Fall 2013 - University of Virginia
Contents
Life in Balance
Feeling Weighed Down?
Out of Rhythm but Not Options
Step It Up
Your Mightiest Muscle
Well, Well, Well
Are You Doing More Harm Than Good?
Is Your Shut-Eye Serving You Well?
Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge
Anatomy of an ER Visit
Next-Gen Surgery
Attack from Within
Virtual Health
Struggling to Breathe
Heads Up
A Swing and a Hit

Vim & Vigor - Fall 2013 - University of Virginia