What to Expect

ENTRY AND TRIAGE

When you arrive at the Emergency Care Center, you will be asked to sign in and be seated. Your care will begin in triage - the area where we determine the severity of your condition and make sure that doctors see the patients with the most urgent needs first. When it is your turn, the triage nurse will ask you about your symptoms, medical history, pain level, and allergies. You will also find out if you may eat or drink while you are waiting. The triage nurse will determine what happens next for your care.

REGISTRATION

A registration clerk will ask you for information necessary to begin your medical chart. Please be prepared to show your photo ID and any insurance information. After registration, you will move to an exam room or return to the waiting area until an exam room becomes available.

TREATMENT

To determine how best to proceed with your care, we often perform diagnostic tests such as blood tests, urine tests, or x-rays. Completing the tests and receiving results can take up to three hours - sometimes longer for specialized tests. Once we receive your test results, your doctor will further evaluate your condition and either treat you in the Emergency Care Center or admit you to the hospital. You may need to wait longer at this point for additional test results, consultation with specialists, or for an appropriate hospital bed.

DISCHARGE

Upon discharge from the Emergency Care Center, you will receive written care instructions to follow at home. Please be sure to ask questions if anything is unclear to you. Is it very important to follow these instructions and schedule a follow-up visit with your doctor or clinic.