If you arrive by way of rescue squad, you will be taken to a patient-care room, and a nurse or admitting clerk will ask you initial questions.
If you arrive on your own or with a police officer through the emergency room main entrance, someone will ask you why you are seeking medical assistance. You will then be taken to a private area where the screening ("triage") nurse will talk with you.
You may be asked the following:
- your name and address
- occupation
- date of birth
- employer
- insurance
- next of kin or emergency contact.
Information given regarding anything you are seen for in the emergency room is confidential and necessary for registration and also documentation.
If you are under the age of 18, your parent or legal guardian should give consent for an examination. However, if consent can't be obtained and you need care right away, hospitals and law enforcement offices have procedures for this situation.