Children
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From everyday bumps and bruises to more worrying symptoms, it’s not always easy to judge what needs urgent care.
Here’s how to decide whether a plaster is enough or a trip to the emergency centre is the right call.
Severe, uncontrollable bleeding
If bleeding is uncontrolled or spurts and flows heavily; or a small wound doesn’t stop bleeding after 10-15 minutes of direct pressure, seek emergency care. “This is particularly critical for deep or irregular cuts, especially on the hands, face, or joints,” says Louise Greyling, Unit Manager of the Emergency Centre at Mediclinic Panorama.
Minor scrapes, bruises, or shallow cuts (for example those that only affect the top layer of skin, or less than 1 - 2cm in length) that stop bleeding quickly and don’t affect the face, joints or extremities can be treated at home by cleaning and covering with a plaster or bandage. Anything bigger, deeper, bleeding heavily or if there are concerns about infection should be treated as more than minor and you may need to seek a medical opinion.
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
If someone is battling to breathe, wheezing, or can’t talk in full sentences, they need urgent help. If they’re choking and can’t cough or speak, call for help right away by contacting ER24 on 084 124.
The common cold, which may present with a mild cough, sore throat or blocked nose can usually be treated at home with rest, plenty of fluids, and if needed, over-the-counter medicine from the pharmacy.
Chest pain or discomfort
Chest pain is always a red flag. “Chest pain that doesn’t go away, or spreads to the arm, neck, or jaw, could indicate a heart problem,” warns Greyling. If the person is also sweating, feeling sick, or struggling to breathe, get medical help immediately. Even mild chest pain should be checked if the patient has heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
Loss of consciousness or altered mental state
If someone faints, becomes confused, disoriented, or unusually drowsy, get medical attention. “This also applies to children who suddenly act differently after an injury,” says Greyling, as they could be suffering from concussion. “Brief dizziness that resolves quickly may not require emergency care but should still be monitored.”
Severe burns
Burns larger than the palm of your hand, or those affecting the face, hands, feet, or genitals, need medical care. Burns that appear white, charred, or painless may indicate deep tissue injury. “Chemical or electrical burns also require immediate treatment,” Greyling advises. Smaller, red burns that are the size of a coin can be rinsed under cool water and covered with a sterile dressing.
Suspected broken bones
A visible deformity, severe pain, or inability to move a limb suggests a fracture. If you can see bone or the limb appears misaligned, go to the emergency centre. Minor sprains that improve with rest and ice can often be managed at home, but keep an eye on swelling or increased pain.
Head injuries with warning signs
Head injuries followed by headaches, vomiting, confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness need urgent assessment. “Warning signs include pupils of different sizes or clear fluid leaking from the nose or ears,” says Greyling.
A mild bump without further symptoms can be safely observed at home.
Severe allergic reactions
Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a sudden rash may be a sign of anaphylaxis – a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. “If someone has a known allergy and has been exposed to their trigger, don’t wait for symptoms to progress,” says Greyling.
Mild, localised reactions can be treated with antihistamines and observation.
Trust your instincts
If you’re not sure what’s wrong, it’s always best to get symptoms checked. As Greyling explains: “Mediclinic’s Emergency Centres are there to help you make the right call. Your peace of mind matters.”