Preparing to visit the emergency room is a funny concept. After all, medical emergencies are almost always unplanned. But, just like it’s a good idea to know where the exits are in case of a fire, it’s wise to know what you’d do in case of an emergency room visit. Planning ahead of time can help you stay as calm and focused as possible should you ever need the ER.
To prepare for an emergency room visit in Evansville, IN, be sure to:
- Keep emergency contact information on your phone
- Have a spare key or code to your house
- Know your medical history
- Make a list of your symptoms
- Know what hospital you’re going to
- Bring a companion
How To Prepare for an Emergency Room Visit
Indiana ranked number eight out of 50 for states with the most emergency room visits between 2016 and 2020. There are a number of reasons why Hoosiers may require emergency services. For example, you may have to make an emergency room visit in Evansville, IN, due to:
- Severe allergic reactions
- Upper abdominal or chest pain
- Lower abdominal pain
No one likes going to the hospital, much less the emergency room. However, there are key steps you can take to get the most out of your visit and get the treatment that you need.
Keep Emergency Contact Information on Your Phone
Keeping emergency contact information readily available ensures that medical staff can quickly reach out to your loved ones in case of an emergency room visit. This information not only provides essential support for you but also helps the medical team gather crucial details about your:
- Medical history
- Allergies
- Pre-existing conditions
Having trusted contacts listed can also facilitate smoother communication and decision-making in situations where you might be incapacitated or unable to communicate effectively. This ensures that you receive prompt and appropriate care during your visit.
Have a Spare Key or Code to Your House
Having a spare key or a designated access code to your house can be helpful during an emergency room visit. This allows family and friends to assist you and manage your affairs while you focus on receiving medical attention in the emergency room.
In situations when urgent care is needed, a friend or neighbor may need to access your home to:
- Gather essential items
- Care for pets
- Secure the premises
Providing them with a spare key or access code ensures that necessary tasks can be completed without delay, alleviating additional stress during your absence.
Keep a List of Allergies and Previous Surgeries on Your Phone
Having this information on your phone helps you receive effective care during an emergency room visit by enabling medical staff to make informed decisions about your treatment. It also comes in handy if you aren’t able to provide the information yourself so someone else can access it.This potentially avoids adverse reactions to medications or procedures.
Understanding your medical history allows healthcare professionals to assess your condition more accurately and tailor their approach to your specific needs, including:
- Chronic conditions
- Allergies
- Previous surgeries
This information expedites the diagnostic process, leading to quicker and more appropriate interventions. It ultimately improves the quality of care you receive in the emergency room.
Know What Hospital You’re Going To
Knowing which hospital you’re going to for an emergency room visit can streamline the process and ensure timely care. Familiarity with the hospital’s location and facilities helps you plan your route, reducing stress during a potentially tense situation.
Additionally, different hospitals may specialize in certain types of care or have varying resources available. This means that choosing the appropriate one can optimize the quality of treatment you receive.
You may also feel more comfortable and confident in the care you’ll receive if you have a preferred healthcare provider or are familiar with the hospital’s staff. This will enhance your overall experience during the emergency room visit.
Bring a Companion
Bringing a companion to an emergency room visit provides invaluable support and assistance throughout the process. They can:
- Offer emotional comfort
- Help communicate with medical staff
- Provide information about your medical history and symptoms if you’re unable to do so yourself
They can also serve as an extra set of eyes and ears, helping ensure that all instructions and information provided by healthcare professionals are understood and followed.
Additionally, having a companion present can alleviate feelings of anxiety and isolation. This makes the experience more manageable and less overwhelming for you during your time in the emergency room.
Emergency Rooms in Evansville, IN
The surgeons at Evansville Surgical Associates work in partnership with Deaconess Health System to provide quality emergency services to the Tri-State area. This includes providing 24-hour trauma services at Ascension St. Vincent, Deaconess Midtown, and Deaconess Gateway.
Do you need to speak to a surgeon about your medical condition? Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
Knowing how to prepare for an emergency room visit in Evansville, IN, is key. Keep emergency contacts on your phone and have a spare key or access code for trusted individuals. Knowing your medical history aids healthcare decisions, while symptom lists convey your health status. Knowing the hospital streamlines care, and companions offer support. Evansville Surgical Associates partners with Deaconess Health System, providing 24-hour trauma services.
Evansville Surgical Associates has been providing comprehensive and compassionate surgical care for over 50 years. Call us at (812) 424-8231 or (800) 264-8231 to contact us or schedule an appointment. We are available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time.
