Emergency Medicine
What to Expect When You Visit the Emergency Department
While you are in the Emergency Department, we will make every effort to expedite your care. However, please understand that patients are evaluated and treated on the basis of the urgency of their medical needs. Seriously ill and injured must be seen first.
Upon entering Emerson’s Emergency Department, you will first be seen by a triage nurse who will determine the nature and immediacy of your problem. The triage nurse may order x-rays or laboratory tests to help the emergency physician evaluate you more efficiently.
Following this initial assessment, you may be taken directly to a treatment room, or be registered by the admitting secretary.
You may be directed to our new urgent care suite where patients with less critical problems are seen in the order in which they arrive.
If you have a more serious problem, or arrive during non-urgent care hours, the amount of time you wait depends upon the severity of your injury or illness relative to others being cared for.
Your condition may require follow-up for further evaluation and treatment. We will provide you with appropriate referral information prior to your departure.
