How to Handle Medical Emergencies at Home: When to Call 911 vs. Telehealth Ontario

Remaining Calm and Decisive During Critical Home Care Incidents

When unexpected medical symptoms occur during a shift, in-home caregivers must act swiftly and methodically. Knowing when to dial 911 immediately versus contacting Ontario's Health811 service can be the difference between life and recovery.

Immediate 911 Situations (Do Not Hesitate)

• FAST Stroke Warning Signs: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Slurred speech, Time to call 911.
• Chest Pressure or Pain: Particularly when accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, or radiation into the left jaw or arm.
• Unresponsiveness or Sudden Confusion: Complete loss of consciousness or acute altered mental state.
• Head Strike Post-Fall: Especially if the client is on anticoagulant blood thinners (Coumadin, Eliquis).

Using Health811 (Formerly Telehealth Ontario)

For non-life-threatening medical questions—such as mild skin rashes, minor digestive complaints, or medication timing questions—call 811 to consult a registered nurse free of charge 24/7.