What to Expect

Triage

• When you arrive, you will meet with our triage nurse to explain your symptoms.
• This nurse talks with you about why you are here, your medical history, and any medications you are taking.
• Your blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate will also be measured and recorded.

Registration

• Our registrar will speak to you or a family member, if you are too ill.
• The registrar will take your name, address, other contact information, and the name of your regular doctor.
• Insurance information will also be given to the registrar.
• You will be asked to sign a consent form, giving us permission to treat you and to bill your insurance.

Care

• Placement in the patient care area, with ongoing care froma designated area nurse. If the Emergency Department is full, you may be placed in a temporary waiting area until a bed becomes available.
• Blood may be drawn for tests. Tests can take an hour or more to complete.
• X-rays may be taken. X-ray results will be provided to you during your visit after being examined by the Emergency Department doctor and radiology doctor. CAT scans or other specialized images often more time to complete.
• An EKG, tracing your heart activity, may be performed.

Fast Track

Fast Track is the non-acute section of the Emergency Department.

• Patients seen here are those who can be treated quickly and efficiently, with cases that are less complicatd than those treated in the acute-care of the Emergency Department.
• You may have blood drawn for laboratory tests, X-rays ordered, stitched placed, and bandages and splints applied. A nurse will help care for you.
• A doctor can write prescriptions and arrange follow-up care with your regular doctor or a specialist.