When to Call 911 for an Injured Person

Knowing when to call 911 for an injured person is crucial in ensuring they receive the necessary medical attention in a timely manner. This guide provides a comprehensive list of situations where calling emergency services is imperative.

Life-Threatening Injuries

911 should be called immediately if the injured person has severe injuries that could potentially lead to death. These injuries include:

Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness Severe bleeding that does not stop Difficulty breathing or choking Chest pain, radiating to the arm or jaw, which may indicate a heart attack

Each of these conditions poses a significant risk to the health and safety of the individual. Immediate medical intervention is vital.

Head, Neck, or Spinal Injuries

sustained injuries to the head, neck, or spine can have severe consequences. These injuries are particularly dangerous if the person exhibits the following symptoms:

Numbness Weakness Paralysis

These symptoms indicate potential damage to critical areas of the body and require immediate professional assessment and treatment.

Broken Bones

A suspected fracture, especially when the bone is protruding through the skin or when the person cannot move the injured limb, demands a call to 911. Incorrectly moving a person with a suspected fracture can exacerbate the injury, leading to further complications.

Severe Burns

Severe burns over a large area of the body, deep burns, or burns caused by chemicals or electricity are emergency situations. These burns can be life-threatening and require specialized medical care.

Signs of Stroke

Recognizing the signs of a stroke is crucial. Symptoms may include sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or weakness on one side of the body. These signs are red flags that indicate a potential life-threatening emergency.

Severe Allergic Reactions

If someone experiences difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or hives after exposure to an allergen, a severe allergic reaction may be occurring. Allergic reactions can quickly become life-threatening and need immediate medical attention.

Altered Mental Status

Questions of the person's mental state may indicate a serious underlying condition. If someone appears confused, disoriented, or unable to respond appropriately, it's essential to call for help. These altered states can be signs of an urgent medical need.

For any other serious condition, even if you're unsure, it's always safer to call 911 to ensure the injured person receives the necessary medical care. The potential consequences of delaying help can be severe. As the saying goes, 'If in doubt, call 911. We’d rather show up and not be needed than not show up when it matters.'

Remember, your quick action can be the difference between life and death. If you recognize that they need more than a band-aid or a hand up, make the call immediately. We would much rather have emergency services show up, provide necessary care, and then leave knowing we were of assistance. Everyone can then go about their business peacefully, knowing critical emergency medical services were on site and available.