Your Emergency Checklist
When a medical emergency arises, generally, there’s no time to think about what you should bring with you to the emergency room (ER). That’s why preparing ahead of time, before an emergency occurs, can help you arrive at the ER with the right information on hand to help your visit go quicker and more smoothly.
Medications and Supplements List
Carry a list of current medications in your wallet or purse so the ER doctor can make sure he or she doesn’t prescribe something that might cause an adverse reaction. If possible, bring medications with you so that if you or your loved one is admitted to the hospital, you will have your medications on hand. This should also include a list of vitamins, weight-loss medications and energy or herbal supplements, which can all cause adverse reactions and can even be life-threatening when they interact with prescription or over-the-counter drugs.
Medical History
If you have a complicated medical history, keep a list handy of past diagnoses, surgeries and hospitalizations. Also include your family medical history and be sure to note any cases of cancer, heart disease, aneurysms, diabetes and bleeding disorders.
Symptom History
Be ready to explain symptoms, their onset and whether you’ve had them before.
Insurance Information and ID
Be sure to bring insurance information and ID for you and/or for the person experiencing the emergency.
Allergy Information
Carry a list of any types of foods, medications or other materials that you are allergic to, as well as the types of reactions you experience.
Emergency Contact Person
Be sure to have current contact information for at least one Emergency Contact Person
Living Will
If you are an older adult, you may want to keep your living will handy, or at least make sure a family member knows of your wishes in terms of life support.
Comfort Items
If you are bringing a young child, a favorite blanket or other comfort item may help make the visit a little more tolerable for him or her.
Change of Clothes
An extra change of clothes will come in handy in case you are admitted to the hospital.
It is important to remember that the ER is designed to diagnose acute and life-threatening conditions. If you are experiencing symptoms related to a chronic condition and you come to the ER, you may be referred to your doctor’s office to undergo a more thorough evaluation and workup.