Take
the Fear Out of Emergency Department Visits
Most of us don't plan for emergencies, but the fact is one in
three Americans will visit an emergency department this year.
"Knowing what to expect in the emergency department before you
arrive can help alleviate some of your fears," says Dr. William
Baubie, an emergency physician in New York. Plan Ahead! Keep the
appropriate emergency phone numbers posted by all phones and speak
with your family doctor about your emergency care.
If
you suffer a life-threatening illness or injury and require an
ambulance, you'll be taken to the nearest emergency department
(ED) capable of treating your condition. You should expect to
be treated by experienced full-time emergency physicians and nurses.
These physicians and nurses may be board certified in emergency
medicine. Other important features include subspecialists, such
as cardiologists, available anytime, "quick care" areas for minor
emergencies, and a safe waiting area. Whether you arrive by ambulance
or "walk-in," if possible, bring along someone to remain at your
bedside.
This
helps to ensure privacy, safety, and communication. Bring along
an up-to-date medical record, including medication lists and any
advance directive, such as a Living Will. Upon arrival A triage
nurse will meet you near the registration area to evaluate your
vital signs (i.e., blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and respirations)
and ask for a brief history of your present illness. The nurse
will determine whether you need to see the doctor immediately,
or can safely wait your turn. "It's important to remember that
people are evaluated and treated based on the severity of illness
or injury, not on a 'first come, first serve' basis," says Dr.
Baubie.
Patients
with potentially life-threatening emergencies, such as chest pain,
are brought immediately to the treatment area for evaluation.
Next, a registration clerk will collect insurance information
and prepare your chart. You will be asked to wait in the reception
area if your medical problem does not require immediate treatment.
A
"patient representative," hospital volunteer, or security officer
may assist you if you have any questions. Treatment:Every patient's
medical treatment is provided by a physician who is a specialist
in emergency medicine. He or she will examine you and may order
lab, x-ray, or EKG testing to help clarify a diagnosis or determine
the severity of your illness. Nurses and physician assistants
may also assist you during your visit. Discharge The emergency
physician and nurse will discuss your diagnosis, treatment plan,
and prognosis before you leave the hospital.
You
should receive written instructions regarding medications, patient
education, medical restrictions for work, the name of follow-up
physician if needed, billing information, and a list of symptoms
that may require a return visit. Sometimes a hospital admission
is required but only if you are critically ill or require constant
intravenous medication or fluids. "Knowing how an emergency department
operates can help reduce fears and add to your comfort during
your visit," says Dr. Baubie.
