If you are experiencing a medical emergency, it’s safe to dial 9-1-1 during the coronavirus pandemic. Precautions have been taken to protect you should you need to be transported by ambulance to a local hospital.
9-1-1 telecommunicators may ask you a series of screening questions. These may include:
- Are you experiencing flu-like symptoms
- Have you recently traveled internationally
- Have you come in contact with someone who has traveled internationally
Your responses to these questions will not affect the standard of care you receive. The telecommunicator will relay your answers to the first responders so that proper safety precautions can be taken to protect both you and the responder.
What happens when you call 9-1-1 for a medical emergency during the coronavirus pandemic?
Emergency Medical Service providers will still respond to all medical emergencies. However, they will take certain precautions to protect themselves and you or your loved ones from contracting COVID-19.
Precautions such as masks, medical gowns, and other types of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be worn. However, the CDC advises that the process of putting on PPE should not supersede “when lifesaving interventions…are necessary.”
This means putting on PPE will not be more important than taking immediate necessary action such as performing CPR. That is why it is vital that you answer all of the 9-1-1 telecommunicator’s questions so the responders will be prepared with PPE before arrival.
When do you call 9-1-1?
It’s important not to dial 9-1-1 unless you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency. Educate yourself on the signs and symptoms of a heart attack or stroke.
Emergency Room Information
Emergency rooms across North Texas have taken measures to minimize exposure between patients and staff members. Your temperature may be taken to determine if you are at risk and you may be given a mask. The CDC has recommended hospitals separate patients displaying COVID-19 symptoms from those seeking other types of medical care. Each hospital may have a different process, but they are all committed to protecting you and your loved ones.
