What to Expect During Your ED Visit
In many instances, your care will be provided in the lobby of our emergency department. From this area, you may undergo lab testing, EKGs, imaging such as X-rays, CT, or MRI scans, as well as receive physician evaluations and certain treatments. Our back emergency area is reserved for patients with life- or limb-threatening conditions, such as strokes, heart attacks, or those requiring urgent surgery. When space allows, we are sometimes able to accommodate patients with less critical conditions in the back department. We make every effort to get our patients to a room in the back area when possible. Thank you for your understanding and patience.
Will I be seen by a doctor during my ED visit?
You will be seen by an Emergency Department (ED) Provider during your visit to the ED. An ED Provider is one of the following:
- A Medical Doctor (MD)
- A Doctor of Osteopathy (DO)
- A Nurse Practitioner (NP)
- A Physician Assistant (PA)
Our Nurse Practitioners (NP) and Physician Assistant (PA) work under the guidance of our doctors, and they work together to take care of you. All of our providers are licensed in California and have the training needed to care for patients in the Emergency Department.
What other areas will I go to from the lobby during my care?
During your treatment, you might go to different areas based on what you need. Our Internal Waiting Room (IWR). This is where patients get IV medications and fluids. Since space is limited, we can’t allow visitors in the IWR, but once you’re done, you can go back to the lobby to wait with your support person.
You could also go to out task area. Here, we start IVs, give medications, and doctors check on patients. After these steps, you’ll return to the lobby until it’s time for the next part of your care, if needed.
How long will my assessments, procedures and results take?
The time you wait can vary based on how many other patients are here and how serious their needs are. Thank you for your patience as we work to care for everyone.
Time estimates start at the time the ED Provider orders the tests or the treatment you need. We will let you know when your individual tests are available and your treatment will begin.
To see a provider: After a nurse checks you in the lobby (this is called triage), the wait time is usually about 15 to 60 minutes, but it might be longer.
- Medication: After the doctor orders it, you may wait 10 to 30 minutes.
- EKG (heart test): This test takes about 10 minutes.
- X-ray: The wait time to be called for an X-ray is about 30 to 60 minutes. It takes about 90 to 120 minutes to get the results.
- Blood work: Once they get your sample, results take 60 minutes to 120 minutes.
- Urine: Once provided by the patient, results take 60 minutes, total time can be 180 minutes.
- CT/MRI Scans: Time to wait until you are called for the test 60-90 minutes. After your scan is done, results take 60 to 90 minutes. After 5 p.m., CT results can take longer than 90-120 minutes. Please note that CT scans that use IV contrast will take longer to finish than scans that don’t use contrast.
Can I eat and drink?
Do not eat or drink unless it has been cleared with the nurse or doctor. Eating and drinking can delay testing or procedures the doctor has ordered. If you are having abdominal pain, you cannot eat or drink until cleared.
Can my family and friends visit me?
Family and friends are important to your healing. Generally, while in a private room in the Emergency Department, one (1) visitor at a time is allowed due to space constraints and isolation precautions. Your nurse may make exceptions based on your condition. Parents of children are welcome.
Do I need my medications from home?
No, but the doctors will need a list of your current medications with names, dosages and the last time you took them. If you brought your medications with you, please tell your nurse.
Who do I call for billing questions?
When you receive a billing statement in the mail after your visit, there will be a number for you to call with questions. For general inquiries, please call (916) 453-4092.
Where do I pick up my prescriptions?
Mercy General Hospital does not fill prescriptions. If you have a pharmacy, your prescription will be sent electronically to them to fill. They will notify you when your prescription is ready for pick-up. If you do not have a pharmacy, please ask your nurse or provider for a list of local pharmacies and hours.
Pharmacies Closest to Mercy General Hospital:
Mercy Plaza Pharmacy - 3941 J Street, Suite 130, Sacramento, CA 95819
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Rite Aid - 4830 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. & Sunday 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Additional pharmacies within 50 miles of Mercy General.
What if I need specialized medical care?
The provider will recommend a specialist for you if needed. If your condition is stable, you may be asked to follow up at an outpatient clinic or with another provider. It’s important that you call the phone number on your discharge papers to make the appointment. The Emergency Department (ED) cannot send referrals, so if you need one to see a specialist, you’ll need to make an appointment with your Primary Care Provider, who can help with that process. If your condition isn’t stable, the ED provider will arrange to transfer you to a place where you can get the specialized care you need.
What if I am in pain?
Tell your nurse or doctor right away if you have any new pain, if your pain gets worse, or if you feel sick to your stomach because of pain. If you have chest pain, tell the nurse immediately!