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
Emergency mental health help is available 24/7. Call the Center for Counseling and Psychological Health 413-545-2337 weekdays, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. On weekdays after 4:30 pm, weekends, and holidays, call the Protocall Crisis Line at 877-831-7421 to speak with a clinician.
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program
UHS is a designated SANE site for Western Massachusetts. If you’ve been assaulted, complete the Minute Nurse Triage form or call 413-577-5229 as soon as possible; tell the staff you need to see a SANE.
Learn more about the Massachusetts SANE Program
