Emergency Medicine is a medical specialty that focuses on the immediate evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with acute and life-threatening medical conditions or injuries.

You should go to the ER for severe or life-threatening medical issues, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe injuries, sudden and severe headaches, loss of consciousness, or any condition that requires immediate medical attention.

When you arrive at the emergency room, you will be triaged, which means a nurse will assess the severity of your condition. Patients with the most critical conditions will receive priority for evaluation and treatment.

Emergency rooms prioritize patients based on the severity of their condition. Patients with life-threatening emergencies are seen first, while those with less urgent issues may have to wait longer. The staff will do their best to see everyone as quickly as possible.

It’s helpful to bring any relevant medical information, a list of medications you are currently taking, your medical history, and any known allergies. If possible, have a contact number for your primary care physician.

In some cases, you may have a choice of which hospital’s ER to go to, but during an emergency, it’s essential to go to the nearest available ER to receive immediate care.

Yes, once you are triaged, a healthcare provider, often an Emergency Medicine physician, will evaluate your condition and order any necessary tests or treatments.

The tests and procedures performed in the ER depend on the patient’s condition. They may include blood tests, X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, wound care, stitches, or stabilizing treatments.