Acute Care Specialist

Coleman Primary Care -  - Primary Care

Coleman Primary Care

Primary Care Practice & Internal Medicine located in Sterling, VA

When you need attention for an urgent, not life-threatening health condition, it’s good to know that you can receive quality acute care from the trusted providers at Coleman Primary Care in Sterling, Virginia. Linda Coleman, MD, and her team offer in-office acute care for times when you can't wait for a regular appointment. If you have the flu, need your blood pressure checked, or need to see a provider sooner than later, call the office or use the online booking feature to check for available openings.

Acute Care Q & A

What is acute care?

Acute care offers evaluation and treatment for urgent conditions that need immediate care. The hospital provides one setting for acute care, when conditions are life-threatening or need around-the-clock care. The team at Coleman Primary Care provides acute care in-office when you need same-day attention but your situation isn’t severe enough to require emergency treatment. 

In-office acute care is not for potentially life-threatening conditions, such as chest pain or stroke symptoms. If you have this type of condition, you need to go to the emergency room or call 911 for immediate care. 

When is acute care appropriate?

When you have a condition that isn't life-threatening but can't wait until the next day, acute care at Coleman Primary Care may be appropriate. 

Conditions include: 

  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Headaches or migraines
  • Asthma flare-up or attack
  • Insect bite
  • Skin rash
  • Sore throat and strep throat
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Allergic reaction
  • Cold or flu symptoms
  • Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
  • Minor burns or cuts
  • Sports injuries
  • Broken bones or strained muscles
  • Fever, unless in a child less than 2 months old
  • Ear pain
  • Foreign bodies or splinters

If you need to miss work due to your illness or condition, your provider provides proper documentation for you. 

What happens during an acute care visit? 

During an acute care visit, assessment and treatment focus on the health concerns that brought you to the office. It's best to schedule your full physical assessments or annual visits for another time. 

During your acute care visit, your provider does the following:

  • Evaluates your problem or concern
  • Orders diagnostic testing
  • Provides treatments, such as splinting, stitches, or breathing treatments
  • Prescribes medications, if needed
  • Schedules follow-up visits
  • Writes notes for work or school if needed

If you need more specialized or emergency room care, your provider at Coleman Primary Care coordinates with your health care team so you get the best treatment possible. 

When should I go to the emergency room?

When appropriate, acute care helps you avoid long waits in the emergency room. However, you may need to seek emergency care if you have:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sudden onset of chest pain
  • Severe, uncontrolled bleeding
  • Major trauma or injury
  • Suspected concussion or head injury
  • High fever, headache, and stiff neck
  • Change in mental status
  • Sudden change in your ability to speak, see, or move

Acute care at Coleman Primary Care provides quick, convenient, and efficient treatment for your urgent health concerns. For quality acute care, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.