Emergency Room Staff Remind Southern Arizonans: Don't Delay Care
3/23/2021
Tucson, Ariz. (March 2021) – In spite of the COVID-19 pandemic, emergency physicians are reminding people not to delay care, especially if symptoms could be related to a heart attack or stroke.
“We’re ready, we’re prepared, and we are well-staffed in all of our emergency departments. If you feel you have an emergency, we’re here to provide service,” said Catherine Dewsnup, R.N., director, emergency department, Northwest Medical Center.
Heart attacks and strokes are especially serious medical conditions where timely care is critical, said Moser. Delaying care can cause critical damage to your heart muscle or brain.
Dewsnup says it’s especially important to go to an emergency room or call 9-1-1, if you’re experiencing the following symptoms:
Heart Attack Symptoms
- Chest pain
- Arm pain
- Upper abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
- Sweatiness
Stroke Symptoms
- Facial droop
- Facial numbness
- Arm weakness
- Arm numbness
- Speech issues
Fear of catching COVID-19 should not delay seeking care in an emergency, Dewsnup said.
Dewsnup and other Northwest Healthcare staff are continuing to take extra precautions during the pandemic, including housekeeping teams cleaning frequently used areas, supporting social distancing, and requiring staff and visitors to continue wearing masks. Caregivers practice infection prevention including wearing personal protective equipment and washing hands before and after caring for each patient.
To learn more about stroke and heart attack symptoms, and how Northwest Healthcare’s Emergency Department is taking extra safety precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic, watch our educational video.
About Northwest Primary & Specialty Care
Northwest Primary & Specialty Care is a practice affiliated with Northwest Healthcare which includes Northwest Medical Center, Northwest Medical Center Sahuarita, and Oro Valley Hospital. Specialists include Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gynecological Surgery, Neurology, Sports Medicine, Breast Surgery and Podiatry. For more information about the providers who practice with Northwest Primary & Specialty Care, visit MyTucsonDoc.com.
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