Open gallbladder removal: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Call emergency services for severe trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, confusion, coughing up blood, or sudden severe weakness.

   Do not drive yourself for emergency care.

   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
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Contact your surgical team promptly if you have worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fever, increasing redness, pus, wound separation, or fluid leaking from the incision.

   Also seek prompt advice for yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, a swollen abdomen, inability to keep fluids down, or new swelling and pain in one calf.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Mild bruising, tiredness, and gradually improving incision pain can be part of routine recovery.

   Mention symptoms that persist or interfere with eating and activity at your follow-up appointment.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Open gallbladder removal. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.