Emergency Department Frequently Asked Questions

Who will treat me in the Emergency Department?

The ED’s health care team consists mainly of doctors and nurses who are specially trained to treat all types of medical emergencies.

Can my family visit me in the treatment area?

Your family members may wait with you in your treatment area. They must stay at your bedside. If the ED becomes full or if a doctor or nurse feels that you need privacy, your family may be asked to return to the waiting area.

In consideration for our critically ill patients, no child age 12 or younger may visit a patient without permission from the charge nurse. Ask to see the charge nurse to make this request.

How long can I expect to be in the Emergency Department?

Quality care takes time. Your total length of stay may depend on your symptoms, illness, and whether you have to be admitted to the hospital. Also, if the emergency physician consults with a specialist or you have special tests and x-rays taken, your stay may be longer.

How long does it take to get laboratory and x-ray results?

To accurately diagnose your condition, we need time to review lab tests and x-rays. These tests may take a period of time to process.

What happens when I am discharged?

You will be discharged, admitted to the hospital, or transferred to a different hospital. If you are discharged, you will be given instructions on how to care for yourself and given a number to call if you have continued problems. If you do not understand the instructions or have any questions about them — ask! You may be told to follow up with your primary care physician.

You will be responsible for your own transportation home. If you parked in the hospital’s Patient and Visitor Parking Garage, you will receive free parking. Present your discharge papers to the admissions clerk in the ED.