Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency care for heavy or uncontrolled bleeding, trouble breathing, fainting, severe chest or abdominal pain after an internal procedure, vomiting blood, or passing a large amount of red or maroon blood.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek prompt medical advice for:
Increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or worsening pain
Fever or feeling increasingly unwell
Bleeding that continues despite the pressure advised in your instructions
A wound that opens or is not healing as expected
New numbness, weakness, or loss of function near the treated area
Return of the original bleeding or growth
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
For routine questions, contact the treating team if you are unsure how to care for the wound, when to remove a dressing, or when to restart a medicine.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Electrocauterization. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.