What to expect in the Emergency Department
In the emergency department, the most seriously ill or injured patients are treated first. This process is called "triage" (pronounced tree-ahj), from the French word meaning "to sort."

Usually, the first person you'll see in the emergency department is the "triage nurse." The triage nurse checks vital signs including temperature, heart rate, blood pressure and breathing and asks questions about why you are there. The triage nurse will also ask the name of your regular doctor.

Unless you need to be treated right away, the triage nurse will direct you to a registration area. You'll be asked for your name, age, address and the name of your health insurance company. It's a good idea to keep this information written down along with your medical history, so you'll have it when you need it.

If your condition is not life, or limb, threatening, you may be asked to wait in the waiting room until your name is called. If your condition gets worse while you are waiting, let the triage nurse know.

There are many reasons why a trip to the emergency department can take longer than a doctor's office visit. Unlike a doctor's office, where appointments are spread out, many emergency patients may arrive at once. Also, you must wait for the results of any x-rays or tests done in the emergency department. This way, the emergency physician can immediately begin your treatment. You can help make the time pass more quickly if you plan ahead. If possible, take along a book or toys for the children when you head for the emergency department. And remember - you will only be asked to wait if it is safe for you to do so.

Be sure that all of your questions regarding your care are answered by the doctor or nurse.