Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus: when to get help
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
Use emergency services if you have signs of severe illness, such as difficulty breathing, new confusion, fainting, blue or grey lips, very rapid breathing, or difficulty staying awake.
Rapid deterioration with an infection may be a sign of sepsis.
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 advice promptly if you have a wound after surgery or around a catheter, implant, or other medical device.
Same-day assessment is appropriate if:
Redness or swelling is spreading quickly
You have fever or chills with a skin infection
Pain is severe or worsening
Red streaks extend from the affected area
The infection is near an eye
You have a weakened immune system or serious long-term illness
Symptoms are getting worse despite treatment
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a medical assessment if you have a painful, warm, swollen, or pus-filled skin area, particularly if it is enlarging or not improving.
Routine follow-up is still important when you otherwise feel well.
Attend planned wound checks, dressing appointments, or reviews of laboratory results.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.