The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that there were 129.8 million visits to the emergency room in 2010. Maybe you were one of them. Sometimes situations arise and there is confusion about where to get treatment – emergency room or urgent care center. If you're not sure where to go, read on. Making the right choice could save your life.
My three-year-old has a fever and says his ear hurts, where should I go?
- ER
- Urgent Care
Known as otitis media, this type of ear infection affects the middle ear and eardrum and is common in infants and younger children. It is often accompanied by a low-grade fever. In the past, acute otitis media (AOM) was routinely treated with antibiotics. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends deferring treatment with medication in certain children for 48 to 72 hours. However pain relievers can be used to manage the ear pain and fever. The decision to observe or treat is based on the child's age, diagnosis and illness severity.
I am pregnant and have nausea and back pain, where should I go?
- ER
- Urgent Care
When a mother-to-be is threatening a miscarriage or is experiencing preterm labor, medical intervention is crucial. The goal is to keep the baby in the womb until the baby is viable. One extra week in the womb can make a big difference. Being proactive while pregnant is a preventive tool that can ensure a continuance of pregnancy resulting in a successful birth. When pregnant, it's always best to be safe and go to the ER just in case you may need to be admitted to the hospital.
Porter Regional Hospital and Portage Hospital each have emergency departments staffed with clinical professionals specially trained in emergency medicine.
Porter also has three CareEXPRESS Urgent Care Centers – in Chesterton, Valparaiso and Portage – all open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. with physicians and walk-in care for illnesses, injuries, sports physicals and more. Lab and x-ray are also available.