Emergency Care at Warren Memorial Hospital
Thank you for your patience. Our team is ready to care for you and your family. If you have not completed check-in, please return to the Emergency Department welcome desk. Emergency departments do not operate on a first-come, first-served system. We evaluate and treat patients based on the severity of illness or injury. Those with the most urgent needs are seen first.
While You Wait
After you check in, a triage nurse will review your vital signs and ask brief questions to understand your condition. This helps us decide where you should go in the department and whether you need early testing such as blood work or imaging.
Some tests may appear in your MyChart account before you see your clinician. Preliminary results may not answer the full medical question, so your clinician may order additional studies after evaluation. Certain tests require several days to process. If a result is positive and needs follow-up, a nurse will contact you.
Visitors may be asked to step out during testing or examinations. A designated COVID symptom waiting area may be used for patients with flu-like symptoms who request testing. If your condition worsens at any point, tell any team member at once.
After You Are Admitted
In your treatment room, a nurse will ask about your medical history and medications. Please be ready to share:
- Current medications
- Medical and surgical history
- Allergies
A registration staff member will also stop by. Please have the following ready:
- Photo ID
- Insurance card
- Name of your primary care physician
- Preferred pharmacy for any prescriptions (choose one that is open today; mail-order pharmacies are discouraged for ED prescriptions)
You will be seen by a physician or a physician assistant. Physician assistants work under the supervision of emergency physicians.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are others being taken back before me?
Patients are seen in order of medical need. Individuals brought in by ambulance with serious conditions are taken directly to a room. Some patients with minor concerns may be directed to our minor care area, which can open space sooner than a full treatment room. Calling an ambulance does not guarantee immediate room placement.
2. Why can’t I eat or drink?
Food or drink can interfere with certain tests or treatments. Please wait until your care team tells you it is safe to do so. Visitors may find food in the hospital cafeteria or nearby vending areas.
3. Why do I need an IV?
An IV line helps us deliver medications and fluids quickly. It also allows us to draw blood efficiently and supports imaging studies that require contrast. Although the number of tubes collected may appear high, the total amount drawn is small. Once the IV is placed, the needle is removed and only a soft tube remains.
4. Why is my visit taking longer than expected?
Your care team evaluates your symptoms, reviews lab and imaging results, and develops a safe treatment plan. Emergency staff may also be called to assist with new critical patients. We appreciate your patience during these times.
5. May I take photos or videos?
For safety and privacy, recording staff or patients is not permitted without consent.
6. May I smoke or vape on campus?
Warren Memorial Hospital does not allow the use of tobacco or vaping products anywhere on its grounds, including outdoor areas and parking garages.
7. Where can I charge my phone?
Charging stations are available in the triage waiting area. A staff member can help you locate one if needed.
8. Is Wi-Fi available?
Guest Wi-Fi is available in public areas. This network is not secure and is separate from the hospital’s internal systems.
9. How do I share a compliment or concern?
For immediate assistance, ask to speak with the patient advocate or charge nurse. After your visit, you may call the patient experience team at 540-536-8122 (option 1). You will also receive a survey by text or email. Your feedback helps us improve care.
10. Is translation available?
Interpreter services are available at all times. Please ask for assistance.
11. What should I do with my personal belongings?
We encourage you to send valuables, medications, and large amounts of money home with a trusted person. If you keep valuables with you, the hospital is not responsible for loss or damage. For items left behind, contact lost and found at 540-636-0267.
