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healthwise self-care checklist: do i need to go to the doctor?
overview
for some minor health problems, you may not be sure whether to seek care, try self-care at home, or wait to see if the problem goes away. you can ask yourself a few questions and use a 4-step process to help you decide what action to take.
how can you make a plan for taking action?
these steps can help you make a plan for taking action.
- observe the problem.
- when did it start? what are the symptoms?
- if you have pain, is it a dull ache or stabbing pain? is it constant, or does it go away and come back? is it related to certain movements or activities?
- measure your vital signs: temperature, pulse, breaths (respiration rate), and blood pressure.
- think back:
- have you had this problem before?
- what did you do for it?
- have there been any recent changes in your life (such as stress, medicines, food, exercise)?
- does anyone else at home or work have these symptoms?
- how concerned are you about the problem?
- learn more about it.
- check the healthwise knowledgebase or your provincial health plan's website.
- what do other articles or books say about the problem?
- do you have a helpline or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) you can call? do you have a primary care doctor you can contact?
- what advice or opinions have other people (lay or professional) offered to you?
- make an action plan.
- what do you think is wrong?
- how soon do you think you need to act?
- what have you decided to do about it? do you need to act at all?
- evaluate your progress.
- are you getting better or worse?
- do you still have any concerns?
credits
current as of: october 24, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
current as of: october 24, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
