Awareness and First Aid

This guide helps students decide when to call an ambulance or when to explore alternative options in a medical emergency.

Medical emergencies can be frightening and overwhelming, especially for students who may be away from home for the first time. Knowing when to call an ambulance and when to explore alternative options is crucial. In this guide, we'll help you navigate the decision-making process, ensuring you make the right call.

When to call for an ambulance

It’s important to understand that calling an ambulance should be reserved for genuine emergencies. Using an ambulance when it's not a true emergency can lead to claim rejections, leaving the patient liable for the expenses. Here's a breakdown of situations where you should call an ambulance:

  • Acute injury or illness requiring medical attention

When a person has suffered or is reasonably believed to have suffered an acute (sudden) injury or illness that needs immediate medical attention or transportation, calling an ambulance is the right choice.

  • Persistent shortness of breath or wheezing

If you or someone around you is experiencing persistent shortness of breath or wheezing, mainly if it doesn’t respond to the person’s usual medications, call an ambulance. These may be symptoms of a serious respiratory issue that needs urgent medical intervention.

  • Medical professional’s request

If a doctor, registered nurse, or paramedic has requested the urgent transport of a patient by ambulance, it’s a clear indication that the situation is an emergency.

  • Acute life-threatening scenarios

Any situation that poses an immediate, life-threatening risk should prompt you to call an ambulance. This includes acute or persistent severe chest pain, especially if it radiates to your arm or jaw and is accompanied by sweating, vomiting, or shortness of breath.

When not to call an ambulance

On the other hand, it’s not always necessary to call an ambulance, and you have alternative options.

  • Non-urgent health needs

If the medical issue is non-urgent, and the patient’s life or usual activities would not be immediately threatened by seeking treatment later, consider visiting a pharmacist or your general practitioner (GP).

  • Non-emergency conditions

Coughs, colds, the flu, bronchitis, earaches, sore throats (with or without fever), and general weakness don’t usually require ambulance transport. These conditions can often be managed with over-the-counter medications from your pharmacist, rest, and self-care. Or see your GP if they persist.

  • Ongoing discomfort

If you’re otherwise healthy, but are experiencing ongoing, dull, nagging chest discomfort, or common symptoms like fainting, dizziness, and headaches, these are not considered medical emergencies. In such cases, schedule an appointment with your GP or other healthcare professional.

In case of a genuine medical emergency, call 084 124 for real help, real fast.

ER24 offers a dedicated Campus Services for students. To find out more about these services, including trauma counselling and support, visit our website at ER24 Campus Services.