Updated on June 21, 2023.
Whether you’ve been in an accident, gotten injured at the gym, or simply have a pain you can’t explain, you never know when you’ll end up in the emergency room. If it happens to you, you’ll probably want to get in and out fast. Use these tips to stay healthy and safe the next time you have to go to the ER.
Get your ID checked
The emergency room is a busy place. And even though you may be dealing with the same hospital staff or assigned to the same bed for your entire stay, it’s important that your nurse or healthcare provider (HCP) checks your ID multiple times by asking your name and date of birth, and/or scanning your hospital wristband before giving you any treatment. The wristband itself should include your name and date of birth, as well as your date of admission and hospital identification number.
Wash your hands and ask your HCP to wash theirs
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 25 patients develop an infection related to hospital care. Protect yourself against infections by wearing a mask and washing your hands for at least 20 seconds using soap and water whenever possible. You can also use an alcohol-based sanitizer; rub your hands with it until they’re dry. Don’t be afraid to ask your HCP to wash their hands before treating you, too, just to be safe.
Speak up
Tell your ER provider about all your symptoms and what’s worrying you. This will help your healthcare team properly diagnose and treat you. If you’re in pain or sick, it’s easy to forget to raise your questions and concerns, so bring along a friend or family member if you can, and if the ER allows it. Your crew can help you oversee your healthcare needs if you forget anything or if you’re unable to speak for yourself. And when it comes to treatment, don’t be afraid to ask about all of your options.
Bring a list of your current medications
You’ll want to tell your HCP about any medications, vitamins, herbals, and/or supplements you take. This will help prevent you from getting medications that could interfere with them.
You shouldn’t take any medication when you’re in the ER unless your HCP prescribes it. If you are prescribed a drug, ask why. And if the meds make you feel worse, tell an HCP immediately.
Make friends with the nurses
Shift changes are the most likely times for medical mistakes to happen. Before your current nurse leaves for the day, review your chart with them and ask about treatments you should expect to receive. Remember: Your new nurse needs to double-check your wristband before administering any medication.
Get vaccinated
While you may be in the emergency room for a sprained ankle, the person sitting to your right could be there for a contagious disease like the flu or COVID-19. That means you could leave the hospital only to return in a couple of days because you’re infected. While you can’t predict trips to the emergency room, you can protect yourself against certain infections by being up-to-date on your vaccinations—including your COVID-19 shot.
