None — ER Use in the U.S.
Emergency room use is on the rise in the U.S. In 2006, there were 119.2 million visits to emergency rooms, an increase of 32 percent over the past ten years. Infants (under 12 months) account for the highest proportion of emergency room patients (3.5 million visits in 2006). People 75 and older make up the second largest group of ER patients (10.2 million). More than 35 percent of ER visits are for treatment of an injury.
In many cases of injury, the need for urgent care is obvious. The need for care for symptoms of illness may not be as obvious. Generally, it's best to consult a health care provider whenever a concern arises about someone's health. In addition: The American College of Emergency Physicians recommends that medical help be sought for the following symptoms: breathing problems, chest pain or pressure lasting two or more minutes, fainting, sudden dizziness or weakness, vision changes, problems speaking, confusion, unexpected changes in behavior, trouble walking, sudden or severe pain, unusual stomach pain, uncontrolled bleeding, severe or lasting vomiting or diarrhea, coughing or vomiting of blood or thoughts of suicide or homicide.
Preparing for the Emergency Room
Typically, a visit to the ER isn't a planned event. The sudden need for urgent care for a loved one can bring a sense of panic and confusion for family members. However, it's important for emergency physicians to have as much information as possible about the patient to properly assess symptoms, make an accurate diagnosis and provide timely treatment.
The American College of Emergency Physicians recommends gathering heath care information and medical records for each member of the family and keeping copies of those records in the home, car, first aid kit and wallet. This form should contain the following information:
• Name and telephone number of the primary care physician and doctors providing specialty care.
• Brief medical history, including chronic ailments (like asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease) and the dates of treatment or surgeries for major medical events (like a heart attack).
• List of known allergies or reactions to medications.
• List of current medications, dosages and when they are taken. Include any over-the-counter drugs or herbal remedies taken regularly. (This list should be checked frequently to ensure it is up-to-date.)
• Name and telephone number of the patient's pharmacist.
• Names, relationship and telephone numbers for emergency contacts.
Kellie Flood, M.D., Geriatrician with the University of Alabama at Birmingham, says other things to keep with the emergency contact list are a copy of the patient's insurance card (an original will still need to be presented to the hospital staff, but this will give them time to start the paperwork) and a copy of paperwork designating a healthcare power of attorney or healthcare proxy. All of this information should be given to the hospital when a loved one is taken to the ER. Even if a patient has been in the ER previously, new copies should be given because information may have changed or the staff may not be able to quickly locate the patient's chart.
The American College of Emergency Physicians also recommends everyone who has a cell phone enter emergency contacts in their address book. These contacts should be designated as ICE (In Case of Emergency) and can be listed with references, like: ICE1 – dad, ICE2 - son, etc. If a person coming into the emergency room is unconscious or unable to talk, the cell phone can be used to locate people who can provide vital information to emergency physicians.
If you have any specific concerns on how to prepare for a potential trip to the ER for yourself or for a family member, speak with a health care provider. For general information and tips, visit the American College of Emergency Physicians Foundation's website.