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 or sudden chest pain
Severe trouble breathing
Fainting or inability to wake normally
Sudden facial drooping, arm weakness or trouble speaking
Heavy bleeding that does not stop
Do not drive yourself for emergency assessment.
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 prompt medical advice for increasing incision redness, drainage, wound separation, fever, worsening ankle swelling, new palpitations or breathlessness that is worsening rather than improving.
And for anyone, someone who:
has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Contact your surgical or cardiology team if pain is not improving, your appetite remains poor, you have medication side effects or you need advice about activity, work or follow-up.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Aortic valve surgery - open. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.