Recently it feels like I’ve become kind of a pro at Emergency Room visits. Trip number one was a spectacularly good blow to the head which required Dear Daughter number one needing to be ruled out for a concussion. This was shortly followed by trip number two; a lovely rolled ankle. That fall resulted in a nasty sprain and a beautiful new set of crutches. Yeh Ha. Trip number three was the quickest trip of all with someone near and dear to my heart, as we cruised down the road at top speed towards the Emergency Room I silently cursed in my head “where are the cops to pull you over when you need them“. That trip to the ER was no fun at all, not that any of them are. Not to worry though, alls well that ends well, and everyone I adore is now healthy, happy and home safe and sound. So what have I learned from my three super quick gotta run to the ER trips this year? Lots:
Here are my biggest tips to help be prepared should you find yourself needing to dash out to urgent care. I hope you don’t, but it really is best to have a plan. Taking an extra two minutes (if you can!) before you dash out the door can save you a lot of agony at the other end.
*Be sure to grab the health card of your loved one and any pertinent insurance information. It will make your discussion with admin staff at the hospital a whole lot easier.
*Don’t forget your cell phone, and if you have time grab a portable charger or your regular phone charger. You will thank me! I’m forever thankful for our Canadian Health Care system, but it is damn busy. You will be confronted with wait times and be oh so thankful for a charged phone to keep in touch with those who didn’t come to the hospital with you.
*Do you, or your loved one take regular medication? Grab that too or a list of your loved one’s medications. Doctors will need to know what kind of medication your loved one takes, and you may be at the hospital long enough that you need a dose of your regular meds. Truth.
*Get headaches? Even if you don’t. Grab some Advil. Stress equals headaches. It’s normal. You’re supporting someone having a hard time but you don’t need a migraine to compound things and keep you from being your best self. Throw that headache medication in your purse or pocket.
*Since you’re throwing stuff in your purse, add in a couple of granola bars or even a bottle of water. Depending on the type of ER visit it might be okay for your family or friend to have a little snack. For sure it’s okay for you to eat.
*Cash is king. You may need cash for parking, coffee or even a pay phone. Be sure to have a couple of bucks on hand.
*Grab the Purel. Yes, there is sanitizer everywhere at the Hospital, so don’t fret if you forget this one, but it is nice to have a little extra on hand.
Heading to the Emergency Room is never a pleasant experience, but if you can take a couple of moments to prepare, and a few deep breaths before you go, it can be a little less painful!
Thanks for all the great tips