A medical emergency is any sudden illness or injury that poses an immediate threat to a person’s life or long-term health. These can include conditions such as:

• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Sudden weakness, confusion, or loss of consciousness
• Severe bleeding or injury
• Uncontrolled seizures
• Signs of a stroke (e.g., drooping face, slurred speech, arm weakness)
• Persistent vomiting, especially after head injury
• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)

Recognizing these symptoms quickly allows for timely intervention, which can make all the difference between recovery and complications.

Steps to Respond Quickly and Effectively

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

Panic can cloud judgment. Take a deep breath, stay focused, and evaluate the situation carefully. Ensure your own safety before approaching the person in distress.

2. Call for Emergency Help Immediately

If you suspect a life-threatening situation, call for help right away. In Nigeria, dial your local emergency line or contact your nearest hospital — such as Tranquil and Quest Specialist Hospital — for immediate guidance and ambulance support.

3. Check for Responsiveness and Breathing

Gently tap the person and ask if they can hear you. If unresponsive, check for breathing. If the person isn’t breathing or is gasping, begin CPR if trained, and continue until help arrives.

4. Control Bleeding or Support Breathing

Apply pressure to bleeding wounds using a clean cloth. For breathing difficulties, help the person sit upright and loosen any tight clothing. Avoid giving food, drink, or medication unless instructed by a medical professional.

5. Stay with the Patient Until Help Arrives

Reassure and monitor the person continuously. If you’re on the phone with emergency responders, follow their instructions carefully.

The Importance of Being Prepared

Preparation can make emergencies less chaotic. Consider learning basic first aid and CPR, keeping emergency numbers saved on your phone, and maintaining a simple first aid kit at home or in your car.

At Tranquil and Quest Specialist Hospital, our Emergency and Urgent Care Unit operates with state-of-the-art facilities and an expert team ready to handle critical situations efficiently. From initial response to advanced treatment, we ensure every patient receives timely, compassionate, and professional care.

Your Health, Our Priority

Being informed and prepared empowers you to act decisively when every second matters. And when emergencies occur, you can trust Tranquil and Quest Specialist Hospital (TQSH) to deliver prompt, expert medical attention every time.