In an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

The Emergency Department at Bertrand Chaffee Hospital is located on the first floor of the hospital. Access the waiting room and registration area through the main door of the hospital on the west side of the building. We are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Emergency Department Admission

Upon arrival to the Emergency Department the following will take place:

  • A nurse will take you to a patient care area for an initial evaluation.
  • The nurse will ask you about the problem that has brought you to the emergency department as well as past medical problems.
  • You will be asked about medications you are taking and any allergies you have.
  • Your vital signs (pulse, temperature, blood pressure) will be checked. Your condition will also be assessed by looking at wounds and lacerations, listening to your lungs, and other procedures.
  • You or a family member will be asked to provide the registration clerk with your insurance and other personal information.

Patients will be seen in order of the severity of illness, not necessarily in the order of arrival at the Emergency Department.

All patients will be seen by a provider who will determine the appropriate care that is necessary. The provider may order blood work, x-rays, EKGs, breathing treatments, IVs, oxygen or medications. The RN on duty will continue to monitor each patient’s condition while in the Emergency Department. If a patient or family member has any questions about the care that is being provided they should ask the nursing staff immediately. Patients should not eat or drink while in the Emergency Department unless directed to do so by the provider or nursing staff.

Emergency Department Policies and Procedures

Visitors

Since space is limited in the patient area, visitors may be limited at the ED staff’s discretion.

Phone calls

Cell phone use is permitted in the Emergency Department. We request that patients and visitors are respectful and courteous in their cell phone usage, keeping ringer volumes on low or vibrate. Please take extended conversations into the waiting room or hallway.

There is a courtesy phone located by the main entrance of the hospital if necessary.

Phone Advice

The Emergency Department does not attempt to diagnose or offer treatment suggestions over the phone. You will be told to call your healthcare provider or come to the Emergency Department as you feel you need to seek care.

Discharge

Upon discharge a nurse will review discharge instructions with you and/or a family member and a written copy of the instructions will be provided for you to take home. You will also be given a survey to complete and return either by mail or put in the drop box before leaving the Emergency Department. These surveys are an important evaluation tool to monitor and improve our care to you and your family in our Emergency Department.