WHEN
SHOULD I GO TO Accident & Emergency (Casualty)?
Most countries organise their health services in a very
different way to those in the UK. Check with your local
hotel, holiday representative or embassy for advice when
you arrive (before any problems arise).
In countries that do not have a Family (Generalist) Doctor
Service it is advisable to use the Hospital Emergency Room
rather than decide for yourself which Specialist to see.
Go to Accident & Emergency (casualty)
If you believe that your problem cannot wait for a doctor's
appointment or cannot be helped by self-care.
If
you have time, phone a doctor first for advice.
Remember, most doctors have a system for seeing patients
urgently during surgery hours. There may also be local weekend
urgent problem surgeries or doctors who visit your hotel.
Go straight to Accident
& Emergency (casualty)
If you have an injury that needs stitching, for example
a bad or deep cut.
If you think you have broken anything.
Remember, only call an ambulance if you cannot go or
be taken to the hospital yourself, or if you need a
stretcher. Be aware that in most countries there will be
a charge for the use of the ambulance.
Do not use this method if you think that the unconscious
person may have damage to the neck, back or any part of
the spine.
First make sure that the unconscious person can breathe.
Gently tilt the head back before placing the unconscious
person into the 'recovery position' as shown in the pictures
(Steps 1 - 4). Once in the 'recovery position':
Check that the unconscious person's hand is underneath the
head, palm downwards.
Ensure the head is tilted back.
If you think the unconscious person may have a spinal injury,
only move them if their head and neck are given extra
support and if the head and trunk can be kept
in line at all times.
Note:
Remember
to check the person's breathing and pulse at regular intervals.
