There may be times after you are discharged that your condition needs to re-evaluated. Some specific signs and symptoms to watch for will be written on your discharge instructions. If you develop any of these you need to call your physician or 911 immediately depending on the severity or the problem.

What are some of the symptoms to be concerned about?

If anyone developed certain symptoms like chest pain, increasing or shortness of breath, moderate to large amounts of heavy bleeding, loss of consciousness, numbness, or loss of bodily function you should call 911. This is not an all inclusive list. You should also call anytime you feel that your condition is an emergency.

When should I call the physician?

If your condition is worsening, your symptoms change or you have any concerns you should call your physician immediately.

If you are a surgical patient or have a wound or incision you also need to watch for any signs or symptoms of infection. These include increasing redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness or pain, a red line extending from the wound, pus-like discharge or a temp of 101degrees or higher.

I have an appointment with my physician scheduled but am having some problems now. Can I wait to talk to them at my appointment? I hate to bother them.

Sometimes something you feel is a little problem can develop into a larger problem if it is not taken care of immediately. It is better to be safe and check with the physician if you are unsure about something that is occurring. If you wait until your appointment it may take longer to treat or even require additional treatment or a re-hospitalization.


This information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.