Emergency care refers to the immediate medical attention provided to individuals who are experiencing a medical crisis or life-threatening condition. This care is typically given in emergency departments (EDs), urgent care centers, or by emergency medical services (EMS) personnel at the scene of an emergency. The goal of emergency care is to stabilize the patient, provide critical treatment, and determine if further treatment or hospitalization is necessary.

Common situations where emergency care is needed include:

• Trauma or injury (e.g., car accidents, falls, burns)
• Heart attacks or strokes
• Severe allergic reactions
• Severe respiratory distress
• Choking or difficulty breathing
• Unconsciousness or severe confusion
• Severe bleeding
• Poisoning or overdose
• Severe pain or symptoms of a serious illness