When to Go to the Emergency Department and What to Expect

• Wheezing, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Fractures
• Fainting or dizziness
• Sudden numbness or weakness
• Bleeding that can’t be stopped
• Abdominal pain- especially intense localized (in one spot)
• Fever with convulsions or any fever in children under 3 months
• Confusion or changes in mental status
• Coughing or vomiting blood
• Severe headache or head injury, especially on aspirin or blood thinners
• Blood in the urine, or bloody diarrhea
• Sudden inability to speak, see, walk, or move

• You will be asked if you have a fever, cough, or had contact with COVID-19
• You will have your temperature checked
• A facemask will be provided if you don’t have one
• You may be asked to go back to your private vehicle or waiting room until a bed is ready

Triage: A nurse will evaluate the seriousness of your illness or injury

• They will check your temperature, blood pressure, heart rate and ask questions.
• You may be sent back to your private vehicle or to the waiting room until a bed is ready.
• Tell a nurse if you have difficulty with overstimulating environments or long waits.
• Ask if they have a quieter area for minor illnesses/injuries to help you to be seen ASAP.
• Inform the nurse of any special communication needs.

Registration: How a medical record is made of your visit. 

• Have a photo identification card and your medical insurance card with you.
• You will be asked to sign a consent form for treatment and payment responsibility.

Examination: Staff will prepare you to be seen by the doctor. 

• Blood tests, x-rays, or other tests may be taken at this time.
• The nurse and doctor will do the best they can to relieve your pain as soon as possible.
• Sometimes medication can only be given after tests or x-rays have been completed.
• X-rays are looked at first by an emergency doctor and also read by a radiologist.

Long Wait Times: There are many reasons I may have to wait. 

• Critically ill or injured patients need immediate treatment, even if they arrived after you.
• Lab and/or x-ray has been called to perform a procedure to help evaluate your condition. Lab tests are highly complicated and take time to complete.
• A specialty room is needed for your treatment.

Family and Caregivers: What if I need help?

• If you need your family or caregiver to  help you communicate, you tell the nurse during triage and registration.

Discharge: When care is complete

• Staff will provide you with written and verbal instructions.
• If it’s necessary for you to be admitted to the hospital, your ED physician will coordinate with your doctor or one of the hospital’s in-house doctors.

Billing: You may need to pay your co-pay before you leave

• You should have money or a debit or credit card with you to make this payment.