What is an emergency department?
An emergency department is also known as an accident and emergency (A&E) department, emergency room, emergency room (EW) or emergency department. It specializes in emergency medicine for walk-in patients, either alone or in an ambulance. The department must provide treatment for a variety of illnesses and injuries, most of which are life-threatening and require immediate attention.
The department must provide treatment for a variety of illnesses and injuries.
What are the different types of emergency room departments?
Departments are divided into three categories:
- Type 1 departments: these are the main emergency departments that provide 24-hour service. Run by experts, the departments have resuscitation facilities for patients. Some of the type 1 departments are combined with major trauma centers or emergency hospitals that specialize in treating patients with complex conditions.
- Type 2 departments are expert-run centers that treat single specialties, such as treatment of dental problems or ear, nose and throat problems.
- Type 3 Departments: Treat minor injuries and illnesses such as broken bones, stomachaches, cuts, fractures, infections or rashes. They are accessible on a walk-in basis and departments include care centers.
Who works in an emergency department?
An emergency department is staffed by paramedics, nurses, radiologists, reception staff, porters, health care assistants and physicians specializing in emergency medicine. Medical personnel are highly trained in emergency medicine.
What happens in an emergency room?
If you arrive by ambulance, the team will drive you to the hospital when you arrive. If the patient is in critical condition, the staff will know and wait for your arrival. If the patient is not in a critical condition, the A&E team will prioritize you along with the other patients waiting to be seen. The following is the process when arriving at an emergency department:
- Registration: If arriving alone at the emergency department, the patient will be asked to fill out a form with all their personal information, and if they have been there before they will consult their medical history. Medical evaluation: Once enrolled, the patient is pre-assessed by a nurse or physician. This is called triage and ensures that people with the most serious conditions are seen first.
- Treatment, transfer or discharge: The next step depends on the results of the evaluation. In some cases, further tests should be performed before deciding how to proceed. If the physician deems your situation to be a non-emergency, the patient may be sent to a nearby care center or referred to a primary care physician. Some people are sent home with a prescription, or if their situation is more complicated, they may be referred to a specialized unit.