Blake Medical Center

What to Expect at the ER

If you or a family member becomes sick or injured, you may suddenly find yourself heading to the ER. The experience can be very stressful and confusing. If you know what to expect at the ER, though, you will be better prepared.

If at all possible, bring a list of your current medications and your doctors’ names and phone numbers with you to the ER. You should also bring your health insurance card and a list of medical conditions and surgeries that you have had in the past.

Triage and Registration
When you first arrive at the ER, you will speak to a nurse or paramedic who is specially trained in emergency situations. The triage desk prioritizes patient needs based on the symptoms that are occurring—this is why a person having chest pains is given priority over a person with a sprained ankle.

Soon after, a hospital registration employee will sit with you and ask you questions. The employee will take down personal information, such as your name and address, age, health insurance coverage, and a list of your current physicians.

Diagnosis and Treatment
You will be taken to a room in the ER treatment area. You will probably be asked to change into a hospital gown and be asked to sit in a chair or lie down on a hospital bed. Nurses will assess you and gather more detailed information regarding your health history. A specially trained ER physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner will see you shortly. You may also see other specialists or technicians, depending on the reason that you came to the ER—for example, you may need X-rays, scans, tests, or blood work.

The doctor may make a diagnosis as quickly as possible and may consult with a specialist before deciding upon a treatment. Once your condition is stable and you receive the required immediate treatment, you will either be discharged or admitted to the hospital.

Discharge or Admittance
If you are discharged, or sent home, the doctor or a nurse will provide you with a set of discharge instructions and any necessary prescriptions. You will most likely be advised to see your regular physician or will be provided with the appropriate specialist for follow-up.

If you need further care and must be admitted to the hospital, you will be moved to a regular (non-ER) hospital room as soon as possible so further treatment or testing can begin.

The American College of Emergency Physicians reports that emergency department wait times are on the rise, but Blake Medical Center strives to see patients as quickly as possible. Our helpful online Average ER Wait Time tool is displayed right at the top of our website, and you can learn more about our Emergency Department services or take a virtual tour of the ER here. 

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Tags: Blake Medical Center, Bradenton, Bradenton Hospitals, Emergency Room, ER, ER wait times