While everyone's reason for coming to the Emergency Room is important, it makes sense that patients with the most serious problems are seen first.

However, we know everyone's time is valuable. At Fort Sanders Sevier Medical Center, we treat and release patients thoroughly and quickly - so they can return to work, family and personal activities in minimal time.

Your arrival

Our Emergency Department is staffed 24 hours a day by physicians, physician's assistants, nurses and technicians trained in advanced cardiac life support.

Upon your arrival a nurse will assess you to determine the seriousness of your problem. Then triage staff will check your vital signs - pulse, blood pressure and temperature - and get a brief medical history. For infants and small children, a rectal temperature may be taken.

After seeing the nurse, you or your family member should check in at the registration desk. This will not delay treatment. We need certain information to order tests quickly if necessary.

Please do not eat or drink anything as this may interfere with tests the doctor may need to evaluate you.

If your condition requires a bed immediately, we will make one available as quickly as possible.

"Fast-track beds" are for those with non life-threatening emergencies. These patients receive quick assessment and treatment.

Treatment

Your treatment depends on the nature of your illness or injury. Please ask your doctor or nurse questions if you don't understand a procedure.

The emergency doctor will decide when you can be discharged or if you need to stay in the hospital. He or she may speak with your regular doctor about your treatment.

If you are discharged, the nurse will give you instructions and any prescriptions needed.

If you are admitted, we will take you to your room as soon as all the arrangements are made.

You don't expect emergencies, but we do.

Choose the ER that's ready to meet your needs.