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
Call emergency services for severe trouble breathing, fainting, heavy or uncontrolled bleeding, a wound that suddenly opens, or new severe chest pressure.
Do not drive yourself in an emergency.
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 urgent advice the same day for:
Fever or chills
Increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or wound drainage
Worsening pain after it had begun improving
New clicking, movement, or separation at the breastbone
Increasing shortness of breath, palpitations, or leg swelling
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
For routine questions about dressings, activity limits, medicines, or follow-up dates, contact the surgical team during normal office hours.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Sternal exploration or closure. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.