It’s never enjoyable to think about an accident or situation that requires immediate medical attention. However, it is the reality of life that these things come up. In these instances, you are often faced with a choice: visiting either a hospital ER or an urgent care clinic. There are pros and cons to both. For instance, there have been reports of very long waits in a hospital ER. On the other hand, 90% of patients wait 30 minutes or less at urgent care centers. Hospitals operate 24/7, while urgent care centers may have limited hours of operation; 99% of urgent care facilities are open at least four hours a day, although most are open seven days per week. Also, costs differ between the two types of centers. But whether you opt for an ER or urgent care clinic, there are certain professional standards that you should expect. Here’s a look at four of them.

emergency care

Courtesy

No matter how busy, the staff at an emergency care center should treat each and every patient with courtesy. This includes greeting each patient politely, and saying “please” and “thank you.” It includes taking a second to make eye contact and to use a reassuring tone of voice. It also includes all the staff members treating each other with courtesy. Patients who are in distress and overwrought do not need to witness any friction or tension between staff members of an emergency care center. A well-run ER or urgent care clinic has an atmosphere of positivity and trust.

Knowledge

Knowledge is a key factor when it comes to patient treatment. As a patient, you need to be aware that the knowledge of the medical staff is not restricted to medical issues. Staff members will also have knowledge on other essential areas, as well. this includes procedures such as HIPPA privacy matters and protocol. A good emergency care staff works diligently as a team. One staff member will not hesitate to consult with another professional on the staff in order to provide the best care possible for the patient in question. It is fully within your bones as a patient to ask questions on matters that you don’t understand. Your emergency staff will be willing to accommodate finding the answers to your questions as best as possible.

Respect and Good Communication

Treating patients with respect is a very important part of the job of every medical professional. They strive to convey information effectively to the patients. This is done by using clear language and terms and making sure the patient understands what they are explaining. Questions should always be welcome and answered as quickly and as thoroughly as possible. Also, staff must make sure that they do not become too familiar with patients and their families – while at the same time they are not too distant, either.

The Complete Attention of the Staff

When you are in an emergency care situation, you deserve to be treated by a staff who is engaged and in the moment. What does this mean? It means that you have the full attention of the staff member or members who are assisting you. They will not be glancing at the television, or at the door to see who is entering…or joking with their colleagues about a private matter. Medical professionals know the importance of focusing on and being patient-centered. Their attention should make you feel valued and respected.

Summary

As seen, the services overlap in an urgent care facility and an emergency room. But there is one thing in common among professionals: the human touch. This professionalism is another aspect of the medical treatment necessary for patients and families when they are distressed. In an emergency medical situation, it is a profound and important aspect of a visit to an urgent care center or an emergency room. If you are upset and in an emergency situation, it is not always easy to remember that you have rights and there are standards of behavior and professionalism that you should expect to be treated with. Going over a checklist like this beforehand enables you to be better prepared when the situation arises and you’re heading to an urgent care center.