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Checking In:
This process is called Triage. Upon arrival at the Emergency Department, you will be seen by a registered nurse who will evaluate your condition and ask you questions. Some of the questions include:
- Are you presently taking any medications?
- Are you allergic to any medications?
- When was your last tetanus shot?
- For women - Are you pregnant?
Next, you will be referred to the registration clerk where your chart will be prepared for use by the Emergency Department staff. You will be asked information about yourself, your family, your doctor, your employment, and your health insurance.
Signed Consent:
Parental consent or consent of a legal guardian is required for patients under 18 years of age. We will make every effort to treat you quickly and have you on your way as soon as possible. However, high quality emergency care does take time. If you are not seen immediately, there may be several possible reasons for the delay.
- Critically ill patients receive priority, regardless of who has been waiting longer.
- Ambulances arrive at a separate entrance where you can't see them. They may be transporting patients in need of immediate medical treatment.
- ED room preparation depends on your condition. We may have to prepare a special room or gather special equipment to care for you.
Even after an Emergency Department physician has seen you, more time may be needed to:
- Complete and interpret laboratory results that may take up to 60 to 90 minutes;
- Process and interpret X-rays;
- Call in consulting physicians;
- Prepare a room if you must be admitted to the hospital.
Going Home:
When you leave the Emergency Department, you will receive instructions to continue your care. It is very important that you understand and follow these instructions. If you do not understand these instructions, please ASK us; we are here to help you.
Patients should arrange for follow-up appointments as directed in their discharge instructions. The Emergency Department staff will not renew any prescriptions. If you feel that you need to continue with the medicine that was ordered, you will need to contact the follow up physician you were referred to or a physician of your choice.
Payment:
You will receive a bill from the hospital for services provided. If you have any questions about your bill, please contact the Patient Billing Department, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at (413) 582-2222.
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