Most patients arriving by ambulance are taken directly into the treatment area where they are assessed by a registered nurse and physician. Others enter the Emergency Department through the waiting area. Patients are then “triaged” by a registered nurse, according to the severity of condition. Triage means “to sort,” and the nurse will determine which patients need to be seen immediately and which are able to wait, if necessary.  

 
It is necessary for all patients to register, which takes approximately 20 minutes, depending on the number of patients waiting at any given time. If possible, please bring your insurance information and a photo ID with you to the Emergency Department.

A physician will see every patient and all emergency conditions will be stabilized. Those with serious or life-threatening conditions will be seen before other patients. The physician will discuss findings and diagnosis, along with treatment plans. The patient will be given written discharge instructions that outline follow-up care. The discharge process takes 10 to 30 minutes.

Diagnostic testing will increase your wait time in the Emergency Department. Lab tests take approximately 90 to 120 minutes to complete, general x-rays can take up to an hour to be completed and read by a radiologist, and specialty tests, such as CAT scans, ultrasounds and kidney studies can take two to six hours to complete. Wound repair requiring the services of a plastic surgeon and the splinting or casting of fractures will also take additional time.

If you have a personal physician, please let us know when you register. A copy of the completed Emergency Department record will be sent to your doctor. If you do not have a personal physician, we will be happy to refer you to a Little Company of Mary Health Services-affiliated physician for follow-up care.

The Emergency Department physician will discuss all available test results with you. If any abnormal test results are received after your discharge, you will be notified immediately. We encourage you to call back if you have any questions regarding your medical care. We are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day.