Full-service care and peace of mind for the ‘just-in-case’
By Kristin Carlson, Marketing Specialist, Bonner General Health
Ahhh, summer. Whether you are on vacation for the week, here for the summer, or a life-long local, these are the months we long for. While you’re adventuring the great outdoors and taking in every moment of seasonal sunshine and warmth, we ask you to be mindful of your surroundings. Accidents can and will happen when you least expect them — it’s why they are called accidents. Focusing on prevention and knowing where to go are key elements to recreating safely and getting the care you need.
Prevention: The Emergency Department sees every kind of accident and injury. We ask the staff every year some of their top tips for preventing injury. Wear a helmet when on a bike, scooter, skateboard, motorcycle or ATV. They also advise to be aware of your surroundings when participating in activities; quickly scan the area for any major hazards that could be avoided. Wear proper footwear, SPF and protective clothing, and avoid dehydration. Less alcohol and more water.
Our picturesque Lake Pend Oreille is our biggest attraction in the summer months. Always practice and teach your kids about water safety. The American Red Cross recommends the following safety measures around water: Never swim alone; utilize U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vests for young and inexperienced swimmers; always supervise children around water and limit your distractions (yes, that means your phone); in a group setting, always designate one person to be the water supervisor to oversee activity in the water; and in a water emergency, reach or throw an object to the person in trouble — do not jump in.
Where to Go: In the event of injury or illness, knowing where to go will make the process of seeking treatment a little smoother. The Emergency Department is the right choice if you or a family member is experiencing a life-threatening illness or injury such as difficulty breathing, symptoms of stroke, severe head injury, and severe pain or pressure in your chest.
If an injury is not life-threatening, a visit to an Immediate Care Clinic may be appropriate. Injuries such as cuts and minor lacerations, minor burns, strains and sprains, and illnesses such as earache, sore throat, fever and upper respiratory infections, bronchitis and sinusitis can all be safely treated at the nearest Immediate or Urgent Care.
Follow-Up Care: If your injury requires additional imaging, treatment and follow-up care, Sandpoint is flowing with high-quality health care services. Full-scope imaging including X-ray, CT, MRI and Ultrasound are located inside Bonner General Health right in downtown Sandpoint. High-quality surgical services, orthopedic care and rehabilitation are all available and can all be easily accessed.
If you’re new to town, take a moment to look up where the closest Emergency and Immediate Care are located. You likely won’t need it, but it will lessen your stress if you know where to go.
Stay safe. Be cautious. Take comfort knowing care is available for the “just-in-case.”
For a complete list of services provided by Bonner General Health, visit BonnerGeneral.org.
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