By Usama Mossalam, MD
Emergency Medicine,
Henry Ford Medical Center- Fairlane

It is one thing to watch the TV drama “ER” in the comfort of home, but quite another to find a loved one or yourself in the emergency department (ED). Will you know what to do?

You will if you have important documentation before a medical crisis occurs. ED requires the following: An updated emergency card (patient’s past and current medical conditions, allergies, medications and doses), and your primary physician’s contact information and other emergency phone numbers. Your primary physician will be immediately consulted about your medical condition. However, in the event of a medical emergency, never hesitate to call 911.

First, medical personnel will evaluate your treatment. Generally speaking, the evaluation system has five levels: Level 1 is considered to be life-threatening; Level 5 is considered non-urgent. Arriving by ambulance doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be treated first. Those patients with life-threatening conditions must be treated first.

For example, heart attack and stroke patients should always arrive by ambulance and not car during this critical emergency. The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) or private ambulance staff is trained to revive someone’s heart that may have stopped beating. It is not only a rapid form of transport but allows the EMS staff to radio ahead of time of your condition. Most EMS vehicles are equipped with portable EKG machines and defibrillators used to shock the heart to normal rhythms. People who have non-urgent medical conditions such as a minor cold might consider making an office appointment with their primary physician.

Provide ED with: any past or present health problems, prescribed or over-the-counter drugs you are taking, report any allergies, and let the staff know if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

After being triaged (a process of prioritizing patients based on the severity of their condition so as to treat), you may be placed in a waiting room depending on your condition. Avoid eating or drinking anything. There may be tests or procedures prohibiting food or drink. Once in the ED, your condition will be reassessed, then appropriate tests and treatments will be given in consultation with your primary physician. If you require a short stay, you may be moved to an observation area.

If you require hospitalization, the physician will provide appropriate information. If discharged, you will be given written and oral instructions of what you need to do including making an appointment with your primary physician.

To make an appointment with a Henry Ford physician or specialist, call 1-800-HENRYFORD (1-800-436-7936) or go to www.henryford.com.