Pericardiocentesis: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Call emergency services for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, fainting, confusion, blue or grey lips, heavy bleeding, or intense chest pain.

   Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or seriously unwell.

   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
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Contact your healthcare team promptly if you develop:

   • Fever, spreading redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage at the site
   • Increasing chest discomfort or breathlessness
   • New or persistent palpitations
   • Bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure
   • A drainage catheter that moves, disconnects, or stops draining unexpectedly
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Attend routine follow-up for repeat imaging, wound review, and laboratory results.

   Mild, improving tenderness at the entry site can usually be discussed at this visit.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Pericardiocentesis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.