Instead of driving to the hospital for emergency care, there are times when an ambulance may be more appropriate.

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Is it life-threatening?
• Could the condition get worse and become life-threatening on the way to hospital?
• Could moving the patient cause further injury?
• Are the skills and equipment of emergency medical personnel needed in this situation?
• Would distance or traffic conditions cause a dangerous delay in getting to the hospital?

When you arrive, a nurse will check your blood pressure, pulse, and temperature, and ask questions about the reason for your visit. You also may be asked about your health history, medications, or drug allergies.

Most patients are seen in the order they arrive, but those with life-threatening issues must be seen first. If you don’t need immediate care, you’ll stay in the waiting room until an exam room is ready.

Tell a staff member if your condition gets worse. Don’t leave without being seen. If you decide to leave without treatment, talk to a staff person first.

You’ll be taken to an exam room where a nurse will assess your condition and ask questions about your injury or illness. A medical assistant may help. Then, an emergency department doctor or medical officer will finish your exam.

You may be asked the same questions by different members of your care team. This is done for your safety and to make sure you get the best care. You can rely on your care team to listen to you and communicate with each other.

Depending on your condition, your doctor may order blood tests, X-rays, an so on. Your doctor may also consult with other specialists. Trust us to do our best to identify the cause of your health concern.

Once we diagnose your condition, your care team will develop a treatment plan. You may get treatment in the emergency room and go home, or you may be admitted to the hospital. Before going home, you’ll receive discharge instructions, which may include information about medications. You may need to get follow-up care from a primary care doctor or a specialist.