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 help for heavy bleeding with faintness or weakness, or for trouble breathing, facial swelling, or other signs of a severe allergic reaction.
And for anyone, someone who:
has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
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 you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Contact your healthcare team promptly if the wound becomes increasingly painful, warm, swollen, or red, or if it produces pus.
Also call if the wound opens, stitches come out early, you develop a fever, or bleeding continues despite firm, continuous pressure as instructed.
And for anyone, someone who:
has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Mild tenderness, limited bruising, and a small spot of blood on the dressing are usually part of routine recovery.
Follow the facility’s instructions if you are unsure.
And for anyone, someone who:
has noticed a lump, a mole that has changed, or unexplained weight loss
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Skin lesion biopsy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.