DR. JOCKO, ER PHYSICIANWhy do some ER patients get seen first?ER VISIT SHEET
Key points
- Many ERs use the Emergency Severity Index: 5 levels, 1 = most urgent.
- Life threatening or high risk patients always go first.
- For stable patients, it also counts the tests and treatment you will likely need.
What to do
- Tell triage your main symptom and when it started.
- Bring a list of medicines, allergies, conditions.
- Feel worse while waiting? Tell the nurse right away.
When to get help: chest pain, trouble breathing, stroke signs (face drooping, arm weakness, trouble speaking), severe bleeding, or passing out: call 911.
drzifferblatt.com/erCheers, Dr. Jocko
Free ER Visit Sheet from Dr. Jocko
Why do some ER patients get seen first?
You check in, sit down, and someone who came in after you goes straight back. It can feel unfair. Here is how ER triage works. Enter your name and email below for the free one page sheet.
- How ER triage levels work
- What to bring and say at check in
- When to speak up while you wait
- Sources: AHRQ Emergency Severity Index and CDC National Center for Health Statistics
Educational only, not medical advice.
Dr. Jocko | drzifferblatt.com / Let's Start Your Journey