Emergencies

In a life-threatening medical emergency, always call 911 for ambulance transportation to a hospital. UHS is not an emergency room.

 

What is an emergency?

According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, the following are warning signs of a medical emergency:

  • Bleeding that will not stop
  • Breathing problems (difficulty breathing, shortness of breath)
  • Change in mental status (such as unusual behavior, confusion, difficulty arousing)
  • Chest pain
  • Choking
  • Coughing up or vomiting blood
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Feeling of committing suicide or murder
  • Head or spine injury
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Sudden injury due to a motor vehicle accident, burns or smoke inhalation, near drowning, deep or large wound, or other injuries
  • Sudden, severe pain anywhere in the body
  • Sudden dizziness, weakness, or change in vision
  • Swallowing a poisonous substance
  • Severe abdominal pain or pressure

This is not an exhaustive list; if you think you are having an emergency, call 911.

 

Mental Health Emergencies

The Center for Counseling and Psychological Health (CCPH) is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days a year for mental health emergencies. Call 413-545-2337 and follow the prompts to reach the on-call clinician. In a life-threatening emergency, always dial 911.

 

Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE)

UHS is a designated SANE site for Western Massachusetts. If you’ve been assaulted,come to UHS as soon as possible, before showering; tell the staff you need to see a SANE. Learn More