Aunty Jane Guidelines: When to Go to the Emergency Department

Knowing when to seek emergency medical care is essential for ensuring your safety and well-being. The Emergency Department (ED) is for urgent, life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical attention. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, go to the nearest ED or call 000 for an ambulance.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Severe or Life-Threatening Symptoms

• Altered level of consciousness or confusion.
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
• Chest pain or rapid heart rate.
• Continuous dizziness, fainting, or loss of consciousness.
• Mouth or throat swelling.
• Soaking a maxi pad every 30 minutes for 2 hours straight.
• Soaking 10 maxi pads in 10 hours.
• Passing a blood clot equal to or greater than the size of a tennis ball.
• Consistent severe abdominal pain lasting 2 hours or more, despite taking paracetamol & ibuprofen.
• Signs of infection, including high fever (above 38.0°C) and uncontrolled shaking (rigours)
• A fever (above 38.0°C) with yellow/ green vaginal discharge and or foul- smelling vaginal discharge.
• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), including difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or hives.

Mental Health Emergencies

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide or feeling unable to keep yourself safe.
• Severe anxiety, confusion, or distress that is overwhelming and unmanageable.

Other Urgent Situations

• Severe dehydration (inability to keep fluids down for more than 24 hours, dry mouth, no urine output for 8+ hours).
• Severe nausea or vomiting that does not improve with treatment.

Trust Your Instincts

If you feel something is seriously wrong, do not hesitate to go to the Emergency Department. It is always better to seek medical attention when in doubt.

The information provided on this website by Aunty Jane in any format or medium, are for general information purposes only and are not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. The information made available by Aunty Jane do not provide personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  To the extent permitted by law, Aunty Jane disclaims all liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information provided. For specific medical concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.