Patient safety and fall prevention is vitally important at St Joseph’s Health. When in the waiting room and throughout the Emergency Department, be aware of your surroundings when standing. Don't rush, take your time, and avoid distractions like cell phones when moving. Move slowly when changing positions. Once standing, remain in place until you are sure you are not dizzy, then walk. If you become dizzy, ease yourself down to a safe position in a chair.

Make sure your assistive devices (cane, walker, crutches) are within reach. If you do not have it with you, please let us know for further assistance. Be sure to wear your eyeglasses and that they are clean.

Please alert the nearest staff member if you need help standing or walking safely.

How long do I have to wait in the waiting room?

The wait time in the Emergency Department depends on both your arrival time and the severity of your condition. If someone who arrives after you is called in earlier, it most likely indicates they have a more urgent medical need.

Please note that the team will start working on your care when you get medically assessed (Step 3).

What happens in the Emergency Room

  • Check in at the front desk and get on the list to be seen by a nurse

  • Wait in the waiting room as the medical staff prepare to see you

  • Here, a nurse or an advanced practitioner nurse will check your blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. They may do initial tests like draw your blood.

  • While you are waiting for the next steps, the ED staff will be preparing what they need to best treat you, including potentially ordering additional medical tests and imaging like X-Rays (Step 5)

  • If needed, you may get some bloodwork and/or other tests done to better assess your health

    Ultrasound: 1-3 hours

    Simple X-Ray: 1-2 hours

    CT Scan (without contrast): 2-4 hours

    CT Scan (with contrast): 2-4 hours

    Simple Blood Test: 2-4 hours

    Complex Blood Test: 4-6 hours

  • Return to the waiting room as the medical staff analyze the results of your tests

  • Here is when you move to the back to receive full treatment