Evaluation

What is FastTrack?
FastTrack is the non-acute section of the Emergency Department. This is the area that quickly and efficiently treats life’s little emergencies. In this part of the Emergency Department you might have blood drawn for laboratory studies, X-rays ordered, stitches placed, and bandages and splints applied.

The medical provider may be a physician assistant who can write prescriptions and arrange for follow-up care with a specialist if needed. A nurse or an Emergency Department technician assist the physician assistant to provide you with prompt care.

FastTrack service is available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Will a doctor see me?
Patients that have more complicated conditions and need more extensive work ups will be triaged to the acute area of the Emergency Department where a physician will evaluate them.

Can my family and friends come in with me?
The Emergency Department is an extremely busy area. Unfortunately, we may not always have the space to accommodate all your family and friends. Our patients needs come first, and our staff needs to be able to work around our patients. Many of our treatment areas are utilized by more than one patient, and we try to respect their right to privacy.

We do allow visiting as follows:

Based on the current situation in the Emergency Department, children under the age of 12 will only be allowed in at the discretion of the staff. Visitors may be asked to step out to give the patient a private moment to speak with the doctor. At times patients may want to tell the doctor something in confidence, and we respect their right to do so.

Visitors must check at the registration or security desk before visiting a patient.

Visitation is at the discretion of the medical staff and at times may be restricted. Visitors may be asked to leave at any time.

How are waiting family and friends kept informed of my condition?
We make every effort to update family and friends on your status. However, because the needs of patients come first, family and friends may sometimes wait longer than they would like. Be assured that one of our staff will update those in the waiting area with your permission as soon as possible.

Can my friends and family call to check on me?
Our staff is sensitive to our patient’s right to privacy. We do not give patient information out on the phone. Calls into the department by concerned family and friends take our staff away from our patients needs and are discouraged. When our patient asks us to relay information to family on the phone, we will make every effort to do so. We would ask that each family designate one spokesperson to keep the rest informed. If a phone is needed, one of our staff members will be happy to assist you.

May I use my cellular phone in the Emergency Department?
The use of cellular phones within the hospital may interfere with our technical equipment. For the safety of our patients, please refrain from using them within the hospital.

Why do I have to get undressed and put a gown on when I only have a simple problem?
Our staff do not know your medical history. Often a small problem has other larger causes which may not be readily apparent. Our medical experts need to make a full assessment of your health status to determine how to proceed.