Medical Emergencies

Below is a list of signs and symptoms that may be indicative of a serious injury or illness that may require immediate medical attention:

  • Is unconscious.

  • Has trouble breathing, shortness of breath.

  • Is not breathing.

  • Has no signs of circulation (no pulse).

  • Has persistent chest pain (lasting 3-5 minutes or longer).

  • Has pain in the abdomen.

  • Has pain in either arm that spreads to the shoulder, neck, or jaw.

  • Has severe bleeding that does not stop.

  • Has deep burns to the face and neck.

  • Has seizures.

  • Is vomiting blood.

  • Has an injury to the head.

  • Has an open fracture to femur (thigh bone broken and sticking out of skin).

  • Has fallen greater than 10 feet.

  • Is in shock (skin pale; cold to touch, possibly moist or clammy; weakness; rapid pulse; increased breathing rate, may be shallow or deep and irregular).

If a serious injury or illness occurs on campus:

  • Immediately call 911 and Public Safety (909-748-8888). Public Safety officers are trained in first aid and CPR and have access to AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators). Give your name, describe the nature and severity of the medical problem and the campus location of the victim. Never attempt to transport a seriously injured or ill person to the hospital yourself.

  • Do not panic. Assess the situation. Look for emergency medical ID and question witnesses.

  • Ask victim, "Are you okay?", and, "What is wrong?"

  • Keep victim still and comfortable. DO NOT MOVE VICTIM unless there is a life-threatening situation (e.g., room on fire, toxic fumes).

  • Check breathing. If no breathing, give CPR, if trained to do so. Use an AED if one becomes available (see campus map of AED locations).

  • Control serious bleeding by direct pressure on the wound.

  • Continue to assist the victim until help arrives.

  • Give all information to the police or medical personnel.

  • Immediately report all injuries to supervisors or faculty.

  • Complete an Injury Report with Public Safety.