What to Expect in the ER

What to Expect When You Arrive in the Emergency Room

Trips to the emergency room are seldom planned. But it's good to know what to expect if you ever do need to go. Some things to keep in mind:

What to Expect During Your Visit

• When you arrive, typically a nurse will check your condition and determine if you need to be seen by a doctor immediately.
• Try to be patient if you need to wait. Be assured, you'll be helped as soon as possible. Emergency departments use a system called triage, which means people are seen based on the seriousness of their conditions.
• Remember — this is a stressful situation, but you are surrounded by professionals trained to help. Being calm will help you communicate better with doctors, nurses, and other medical staff.

What You Should Communicate to Your Doctors

• Describe how you feel, providing as much detail as possible.
• Mention any medications you use and any allergies you might have. It's a good idea to keep this information written down.

ER Visitor Information

• Cellular phones interfere with medical equipment. They may not be used in the emergency treatment area.
• No more than two visitors per person are allowed in the emergency treatment area.
• Children may not visit a person in the emergency treatment area.
• No food is allowed in the emergency room treatment area.

Learn more about Methodist Health System's emergency rooms:

• Methodist Dallas Medical Center - Emergency & Trauma Services in Dallas
• Methodist Charlton Medical Center - Emergency & Trauma Services at Charlton
• Methodist Mansfield Medical Center - Emergency & Trauma Services in Mansfield
• Methodist Richardson Medical Center - Emergency Services in Richardson