Overview

Do I Need to Go to the Emergency Department?

If you are experiencing a life-threatening or life-altering illness or injury, a Northwestern Medicine Emergency Department is the right choice for treatment. If you experience a minor illness or injury, such as a twisted ankle or a cut to the forehead, an immediate care setting is a great option. State-of-the-art diagnostic technology allows the compassionate and highly trained immediate care staff to handle most routine health concerns.

Emergency Department and Trauma Center

Call 911 or go to the Emergency Department in the event of:

• Amputation or deep wounds with severe bleeding
• Chest pain
• Head injury with loss of consciousness or onset of seizures
• Multiple injuries
• Internal injuries and internal bleeding
• Large surface burns
• Physical or sexual assault
• Poisoning or overdose
• Stroke symptoms (weakness, numbness, dizziness and difficulty speaking)
• Suicidal behavior

Immediate Care

Choose an Immediate Care Center for:

• Abdominal pain
• Asthma
• Minor broken bones
• Colds and coughs
• Dehydration
• Flu symptoms
• Foreign object in the eye, nose or ear
• Minor burns, bruises and scrapes
• Rashes or insect stings
• Tetanus shots
• Sprains
• Stitches
• Urinary symptoms