Our goal is to provide excellent care for every patient in the Emergency Department. We understand that each patient comes through our doors with unique needs.

Everyone’s visit is different. The type of care you — and the other patients — need may affect how long you are here. Thank you for your patience while we care for all our patients.

Your Care Team

Your care team will work together to make sure you get the care you need. The team may include:

• You
• Physician
• Nurse
• Physician’s assistant
• Nurse practitioner
• Patient care technician

Your Journey Through the Emergency Department

Your journey through the Emergency Department can be several steps. Your care team will tell you about each step. Please ask a team member if you have questions.

1. Arrival at the Emergency Department
   • You have become ill or had an accident and arrived at the Emergency Department.
   • Your first stop is triage. We will get your vital information and prioritize your care. Testing may begin while you wait.
2. Initial examination
   • Your physician or another clinician will examine you.
   • You may need imaging, medication or laboratory testing.
   • Your care team will work with you to develop a care plan just for you.
3. Evaluating your progress
   • Your care team will assess and manage your pain.
   • This may take hours, not minutes.
4. Test results
   • Testing or imaging results will help guide your care plan.
   • Results of your tests help us decide if you can safely go home, or if you should be hospitalized.
5. Discharge or admission
   • In most cases, you will be able to go home after your visit. In fact, 7 in 10 patients go home after an Emergency Department visit.
   • If you need to be admitted to the hospital, your care team will tell you next steps.

Not sure if you need to go to the Emergency Department? Learn about symptoms or conditions that will determine the level of care you need.

Find location and contact information for our emergency and trauma centers below.