1. What should I do before going to the Emergency Department?
If you think you are having a medical or mental health emergency, DIAL 9-1-1 right away. Do not try to drive yourself to the Emergency Department (ED).
For less urgent problems, like earaches, mild fevers, or sunburns, contact your regular doctor or urgent care. Your doctor knows your medical history and can help decide if you need to visit the ED.
Be ready to explain your emergency in detail. If you think you might have trouble explaining your condition, bring a friend or family member to help. If you have a long-term illness, bring a file with your test results, allergies, medications, and doctor’s reports. This can help the ED staff quickly understand your condition and avoid repeating tests.
2. Why do I have to wait before seeing an Emergency Department doctor?
Wait times can be longer for many reasons, like how many patients are in the ED, how many treatment rooms are available, and how serious your illness or injury is. Ambulances with critically ill or injured patients may also cause delays for “walk-in” patients. Seasonal issues, like the flu, can also make wait times longer. If you’re worried about the wait or your condition changes, let a staff member know.
We don’t take appointments in the ED. We see the most serious cases first, and patients are prioritized based on the severity of their condition.
3. The waiting room looks empty, why am I still waiting?
Some patients arrive by ambulance, using a separate entrance. Even if the waiting room looks empty, they may be seen first, especially if they are more seriously injured or ill.
4. Why does everyone ask me the same question over and over again?
For your safety, we ask your name and check your armband at each stage of your care. This helps make sure the right medications and treatments are given to the right person.
5. I arrived first. Why was another patient seen before me?
Patients are seen based on a system called “triage.” This means people with the most serious conditions are seen first. Even if you arrived first, someone with a more critical illness or injury may need immediate attention.
6. I’ve seen the doctor, and some tests look “normal” on HealthyU. Why do I have to wait?
The doctor may order more tests to help make a final diagnosis or guide treatment. You may need to wait for the results of these tests before the doctor can make a decision. It’s best not to leave the ED before your visit is finished. If you do need to leave, please tell the staff.
7. Can I have something for pain?
If approved, the doctor will order pain medication, and the nurse will give it to you. If you’re still in the waiting room, we usually avoid giving narcotics for safety reasons.
Please note:
- If you receive sedative medication, you will need someone to drive you home.
- Any prescription for narcotics will be for short-term use only and will not include refills.
8. Can I have something to eat or drink?
Ask a staff member before eating or drinking, because some tests require you to be on an empty stomach, and food can affect certain lab results.
9. Will my primary care provider see my results and ED record?
Yes! If you’ve provided your doctor’s name, they will be able to see your records. With your permission, we can share your ED visit details with them electronically.
