Wisconsin
When to Use Urgent Care vs Emergency Department
March 30, 2017
Ever wonder whether you should go to the emergency department or not? Here is a guide to know when to use the emergency department vs urgent care.
Go to Urgent Care for:
A condition that requires immediate care but is not life-threatening
- Common sprain
- Earache
- Cold and flu
- Sore throat
- Abrasion and cut requiring stitches
- Urinary tract infection
- Mild asthma
- Rash without fever
- Broken bone with intact skin and no obvious need to reset bone
Go to an Emergency Department for:
A condition that is life- or limb-threatening
- Chest pain
- Facial drooping
- Head and eye injuries
- Sudden numbness or weakness in arm or leg
- Uncontrolled bleeding and severe cuts
- Vaginal bleeding with pregnancy
- Coughing or vomiting blood
- Sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Rash with fever
- Major fracture that breaks the skin or needs to be reset
Last updated: August 5, 2020