Is It Safe and Smart to Visit the Emergency Room for Non-COVID Emergencies?

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns and uncertainties around essential healthcare services. Many face the dilemma of whether to seek immediate medical care when experiencing non-COVID-related emergencies. Understanding the current situation and taking necessary precautions can help individuals make informed decisions.

A Personal Experience: A Non-COVID Emergency in the Pandemic

My journey with a non-COVID emergency began on October 2020 (the date can be adjusted). After enduring agonizing hours in the emergency room (ER), the initial diagnosis was kidney stones, based on a ultrasound and CT scan which were conducted hours before. However, these tests did not reveal the expected results. Instead, they showed blood in my abdominal cavity, leading to the suspicion of an ovarian torsion. After managing my pain and rushing to the operating room (OR), the diagnosis was confirmed, and I was sent home several hours later post-surgery. A week and a half later, I started exhibiting symptoms consistent with COVID-19, leading to a positive test result.

Although I had tested negative in the hospital and had been isolated from anyone with COVID-19 prior to the ER visit, I believe I contracted the virus there. My 8-year-old son, who was also experiencing similar symptoms, had been doing school virtually and had not been out of the house. However, the assumption was that he contracted it from me. My husband was the only person to enter our house due to work obligations and had tested negative without any symptoms. We followed the health department's instructions on isolation and quarantine, and he never contracted the virus.

Non-COVID Emergencies and Lack of Healthcare Access

It is crucial to recognize that many individuals are still facing untreated non-COVID-related emergencies that can lead to severe health consequences. These include cardiovascular issues, neurological troubles, diabetes, and even eye-related emergencies like retinal detachments. The fear of contracting COVID-19 can lead to delayed or missed medical care, which can be life-threatening.

For individuals considering seeking medical assistance, there are resources available. Most cities have a hotline where you can call and consult with a doctor to determine if your symptoms necessitate a trip to the ER. Doctors will likely advise you to visit a designated hospital for further evaluation.

Current Safety Measures in Hospitals

Hospitals are taking proactive steps to ensure patient and staff safety during the pandemic. Many have set up triage tents to separate patients with COVID-19 symptoms from the general patient population. Additionally, visitation policies have been significantly limited to reduce the risk of transmission.

Medical staff are routinely tested for COVID-19, and other hospital employees and vendors are temperature screened before entering the building. While the risk cannot be entirely mitigated, these measures help manage and reduce potential exposure. Don’t let the fear of COVID-19 deter you from seeking necessary medical care during emergencies. Prioritizing your health is crucial, and hospitals are working diligently to ensure safety for all patients.