How to Survive a Trip to the Emergency Room
By Roxanne Poon, RN, BS, CPHQ, CPPS
Life is unpredictable. Some basic preparation now can help you later if you should have an accident or a medical crisis that requires a trip to the emergency room (ER).
Know Your Health History
Put together a summary of your health history. This vital information affects the treatment you will receive or may require. This information should include:
- A list of the medications you may be taking, including the dosage and when it was last taken.
- Any allergies, including medication, food, or an allergy to Latex.
- Any pre-existing conditions or illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, etc.
According to The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), emergency physicians also recommend that you have “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) entries in your cell phone. Healthcare providers may use these contacts to notify those close to you or obtain important medical information if you are unconscious or unable to communicate this information yourself.
In addition to your medical information, always carry your health insurance card or information. Know what your plan covers related to emergency services. Nonetheless, federal law—the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA)—mandates that any person seeking emergency care at a hospital, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay, receives care.
ROXANNE M. POON IS A REGISTERED NURSE WHO WORKS AS A QUALITY IMPROVEMENT SPECIALIST AT A MAJOR TEACHING HOSPITAL IN NEW JERSEY.
Find Out More
Click for more on emergency room care - and what to expect.
Click for a list of 10 things emergency physicians want you to know.
What Can You Expect in the Emergency Room?
Here’s a list of what you can typically expect to happen when you enter an emergency room (ER).
- Upon entering you will be required to register at the main desk or registration desk.
- Once registered you will be referred to and seen in triage where a specially trained triage nurse will assess the severity of the condition that brought you in. The determination of severity level allows patients with life-threatening conditions to be prioritized and seen first.
- If you are required to wait a bit based on your symptoms, be assured the staff work do their best to keep wait times at a minimum. Many hospitals actually list their wait times on their websites. If you can, try to bring something to read or do while waiting.
- Preliminary tests may be ordered by the nurse before you see a doctor.
- When you are seen and examined by the doctor, a determination will be made about whether more extensive testing is required, or if you need to be admitted to the hospital or can be treated in the ER.
- Once your emergency has been addressed and treated, you will be discharged. You will receive written discharge instructions, prescriptions for medications if needed, and recommendations for follow up if required. Be sure to follow all instructions.
For more information on insurance plans and emergency coverage, CLICK HERE.
