Medical
emergencies are unpredictable-people don't expect to have one. You can
ease the anxiety of a visit to an emergency department by learning some
basic facts.
"First, it's important to know that emergency medicine
over the past 30 years has evolved into a state-of-the-art,
technologically advanced, fully recognized medical specialty," said
Dr. Russell Harris of the American College of Emergency Physicians.
"Today's emergency physicians are highly educated and trained to
handle all kinds of emergency situations and to provide the best possible
care."
By understanding the way an
emergency department works, you may be able to make a trip there
less traumatic for you and your family |
Arrival
If you arrive by ambulance or are
unconscious you will be assigned a patient bed immediately and be treated.
If someone else drives you to the emergency department, you will first
enter the waiting room, where your medical condition will be assessed.
Triage
Most likely, a nurse will determine
the severity of your condition, based on your symptoms, and check your
vital signs, including temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. This
process is called "triage."
Additional information will also be obtained, such as your
name and address and medical history, and someone will prepare a chart.
Anyone who comes to an emergency department will not be turned away,
regardless of their ability to pay or insurance coverage.
"There are many reasons a trip to the emergency
department can take longer than a visit to the doctor's office," said
Dr. Harris.
Unlike a doctor's office, where appointments are spread out,
many emergency patients may arrive at once. Also unlike a doctor's office,
patients often must wait for the results of x-rays or tests.
You can help make the time pass more quickly and speed your
treatment by planning ahead. If you have children, take along a book or
toys for them. If possible, bring along someone to remain at your bedside.
Also, bring any up-to-date medical records, including lists of medications
and allergies, and any advance directives, such as a living will.
Examination
Once you are placed in an examination
area, an emergency physician will examine you, possibly ordering tests
(e.g., x-ray, blood, electrocardiogram) and your vital signs will be
monitored. Nurses and other assistants will also assist you during your
visit.
Treatment
If you are critically ill or require
constant intravenous medications or fluids, you may be admitted to the
hospital. Otherwise, an emergency physician will discuss your diagnosis
and treatment plan with you before you are discharged. You may also
receive written instructions regarding medications, medical restrictions,
or symptoms that may require a return visit.
"Every year almost 100 million people seek care in the
nation's emergency departments, making the ED America's health care safety
net-available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week-treating patients from all walks of life-rich and poor, young and old, insured and
uninsured," said Dr. Harris.
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