If you’re searching for COVID-19 ERs, there’s a few things you should know. Even before the corona pandemic, people dreaded going to emergency rooms. This is mainly due to long wait times and cold and uncomfortable waiting rooms. Now, folks needing attention for cuts, broken bones, chest pain, or whatever medical emergency they’re dealing with, have more options besides hospital emergency rooms
Today, modern ERs are outfitted to provide comfortable waiting areas, shorter wait times, and elevated hospitality. And just like hospital emergency rooms, they offer experienced ER doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals. They also provide referrals to specialists upon discharge.
But how should you choose an emergency room during the COVID-19 pandemic? According to a World Health Organization statistic, around 1 in 5 people infected with the virus need to be hospitalized. Safety and minimal exposure should be your first priority when looking for an emergency room. Here’s what you should look for.
ERs During the COVID-19 Pandemic Should:
- Offer COVID-19 screenings.
- Take temperatures and ask specific questions for everyone who enters,
- Provide a separate waiting area for those with coronavirus symptoms and all others.
- Provide masks for those without one.
- Have hand sanitizer stations throughout the waiting area.
- Provide waiting area with seats separated at least 6 feet apart.
- Have short wait times.
- Operate with a full staff of experienced nurses, doctors, assistance, lab techs, radiologists, etc.
- Have available rooms dedicated to coronavirus patients.
- Discharge instructions with detailed information especially with a positive COVID-19 case.
- Have safeguards in place, like protective equipment and remote monitoring equipment, to minimize risk to staff.
Behind the Scenes, Emergency Rooms Should Have:
- Strong leadership from all staff.
- Excellent communication between staff, especially during shift changes.
- Great risk management.
- Successful relationships with local specialists.
- A “patient first” approach to care.
If you or someone you know are experiencing fatal coronavirus symptoms, walk-in to Hospital Health ER in Tyler, Texas. We are outfitted with a separate COVID-19 area and remote monitoring technologies to keep patients and staff safe.
