An ambulance should be called when there is a potentially life-threatening emergency or a situation requiring immediate medical attention and transport to a hospital. Common reasons include chest pains, difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, severe bleeding, choking, seizures, or signs of a stroke or heart attack.
In addition, if moving the patient could worsen their injuries, or if the person is too weak or unsteady to safely travel otherwise, calling an ambulance is advised. Situations like major trauma from accidents or falls also necessitate ambulance assistance.
Some specific scenarios where ambulance services are essential include:
- Sudden loss of consciousness
- Severe allergic reactions
- Serious burns
- Severe trauma or injury
- Drug overdose or poisoning
- Heart attack or stroke symptoms.
However, not all medical issues require an ambulance; minor illnesses or injuries can often be managed without emergency transport, unless there are specific circumstances indicating a need for urgent care. When in doubt, it is safer to call emergency services as they can advise or dispatch help if warranted.
Sources:
- Emergency physicians' guide on when to call an ambulance
- UK NHS guidance on calling 999 for emergencies
- Australian emergency services advice on when to call an ambulance
- Australian paramedic memoir describing bizarre callouts
- South African emergency guidelines on when to use ambulance services
