Emergency Department vs. Walk-in Clinic/Other – Where Should I go?

Call your primary care provider first! Your family doctor or nurse practitioner are the best care providers for non-emergencies including the common cold, an ingrown toe nail or a UTI. They know your history and medications, and are your best place for consistent healthcare. 

Infographic - When should I go to the ED?

Typically treated in the Emergency Department:

  • Broken bones
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Head/eye injuries
  • Poisoning
  • Seizures
  • Serious burns
  • Severe chest pain
  • Signs/symptoms of stroke
  • Uncontrolled bleeding
  • Coughing or vomiting blood
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Symptoms of stroke
  • Trauma (Motor vehicle accident, farm accident, etc.)
  • Children with fever and signs or symptoms of dehydration
  • Overdose or suspected overdose
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Diarrhea or vomiting with signs or symptoms of dehydration

Typically treated in a Walk in Clinic or Family Practitioner Office:

  • Coughs/cold
  • Sore throat
  • UTIs
  • Sinus infections
  • Pink eye
  • Diarrhea
  • Ear infections
  • Fever
  • Minor cuts/burns
  • Vomiting

Maps & Directions

Bluewater Health’s programs and services are distributed across two locations, Bluewater Health in Sarnia and Charlotte Eleanor Englehart Hospital of Bluewater Health in Petrolia. 

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Emergency Care

Bluewater Health’s Emergency Department (ED) provides safe, quality emergency nursing and medical care to patients.

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Mental Health & Addictions Help

If you or a loved one needs support with mental health or addictions.

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Compliments & Concerns

We are always looking for ways to improve, and welcome your questions, comments, suggestions and concerns. If you’re in hospital, please speak to the hospital staff.

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Locate a Patient

Find or contact a patient by telephone, email or e-card.

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