When you arrive at our Emergency Department (ED), you will first be welcomed by our registration staff. They will ask for essential details regarding your injury or illness. Following registration, a registered nurse will assess your condition. This assessment includes evaluating your symptoms, checking vital signs, reviewing your medical history, and noting any current medications you are taking. You might be seen by a healthcare provider in triage to expedite the initiation of your medical evaluation and care.
The triage system is designed to prioritize patients with the most critical conditions. This means that individuals with severe illnesses or injuries are attended to first, even if they arrive at the ED after other patients. We understand that waiting can be challenging, and we sincerely appreciate your understanding and patience.
Navigating Your Emergency Department Visit: What Happens Next?
After the initial triage and assessment, you will be directed to either a patient care area or to the waiting area, depending on the immediate needs and patient flow within the ED. Our dedicated ED team may commence necessary tests promptly, which could include laboratory work and radiology studies, to further understand your condition. Our commitment is to reassess your condition every two hours to ensure continuous monitoring and timely care. However, if you experience any change in your condition, it is crucial to inform a member of our staff immediately. To ensure appropriate medical management, please refrain from eating or drinking anything without consulting with one of our registered nurses first.
In the Patient Care Area: Receiving Expert Emergency Care
Once in the patient care area, you will receive a thorough examination by a physician specializing in emergency medicine. Based on their evaluation of your condition, you will undergo further necessary tests and treatments. It’s important to note that receiving and processing test results may take approximately two hours or possibly longer. Throughout this process, a registered nurse will keep you informed about each step of your treatment, ensuring you are well-aware of what is happening.
To guarantee the accuracy of your medical information and provide you with the safest and highest quality care, you might be asked similar questions by different members of our healthcare team. This verification process is a standard practice to uphold our commitment to patient safety and excellent care.
Timelines for Specialist Consultations and Test Results
If your condition necessitates a consultation with a specialist, please be aware that it may take at least an hour, and in some instances, up to several hours for the consultation to take place. The turnaround times for both lab and radiology results can vary depending on the number of patients in the ED and the complexity and severity of each patient’s condition. We strive to provide results as quickly as possible while ensuring accuracy and thoroughness.
Visitor Policy
For the most current guidelines regarding visitors, especially in light of ongoing health considerations, please refer to the latest information available on the Penn State Health website concerning COVID-19 management: Penn State Health is managing COVID-19.
Post-Treatment Care and Next Steps
Following your treatment in the Emergency Department, it might be determined that your illness or injury requires admission to Hershey Medical Center for further care. In such cases, a staff member will assist you with transportation to an available hospital bed to facilitate a smooth transition. If your condition requires specialized treatment that is not available at Hershey Medical Center, arrangements will be made for your safe transfer to a healthcare facility equipped to meet your specific needs.
Discharge Instructions and Going Home
For patients who are well enough to be discharged and return home, we provide comprehensive after-care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process. You will also receive any necessary prescriptions for medications to manage your condition at home. We are committed to supporting your health and well-being even after you leave the Emergency Department.
Specialized Pediatric Emergency Care
Our Emergency Department includes a dedicated area specifically designed for patients under 18 years of age. This specialized section is staffed by team members who have received advanced training in pediatric emergency medicine, ensuring the unique needs of children and adolescents are expertly addressed. To ensure the safety and well-being of our young patients, we require that at least one parent or legal guardian remain with their child at all times while in the ED. Blue bracelets are provided to caregivers and children as a positive identification measure to ensure the secure connection between them throughout their visit.
Accessing Your Health Information Through the Patient Portal
For convenient access to your health information and to manage your healthcare needs, we offer My Penn State Health, a secure online patient portal. Through this portal, you can schedule future appointments, communicate securely with your healthcare provider via email, review your test results, easily request prescription refills, and manage your medical bills. Access the portal here: My Penn State Health is a secure website.
Billing and Financial Inquiries
Should you have any questions regarding your co-payment or need clarification about the billing process, our registration team is available to provide assistance and address your financial inquiries. We aim to make the financial aspects of your care as clear and straightforward as possible.
We Value Your Feedback on Your Emergency Department Experience
Our primary goal is to deliver the highest standard of emergency medical care to every patient we serve. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us continuously improve our services. If you have any questions, concerns, or wish to share your experience regarding the care you received in the ED, please do not hesitate to contact Patient Relations at 717-531-6311. Patient Relations is available weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Additionally, we invite you to take a moment to complete a brief, three-question survey about your visit, accessible at: three-question survey. Your input helps us ensure we are meeting and exceeding the needs of our patients and community.
