Wisconsin

When to Use Urgent Care vs Emergency Department

March 30, 2017
urgent care vs emergency dept

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.

when to use urgent care vs emergency department

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