What to bring, what to expect, and how to advocate for your parent in the emergency room
Preparation saves time and stress
Call 911 if: Possible heart attack, stroke, severe bleeding, unconscious, can't safely transport them, or you need help getting them to the car. Paramedics can start treatment immediately.
Drive if: Stable condition, you can safely transport, and you want to go to a specific hospital (ambulances go to nearest ER).
When you arrive, a triage nurse assesses urgency. Be clear and specific:
If your parent is declining in the waiting room, tell the desk: "I'm concerned their condition is getting worse." This should trigger a re-assessment. Also mention: recent surgery, on blood thinners, diabetic, immunocompromised, or any changes in consciousness.
What happens and how to help
"I'm their daughter/son and healthcare proxy. I need to be kept informed of their care."
"This is not their baseline. Normally they [can walk, are alert, don't have confusion]."
"Before you discharge, can you explain what symptoms should bring us back?"
"I'm concerned about [specific issue]. Can someone address this before we leave?"
If you feel your parent isn't ready, say: "I don't feel it's safe for them to go home. Can you document that I've expressed this concern?" You can also ask to speak to a patient advocate or social worker. You cannot force admission, but expressing concern creates a record.