While TV shows make emergency room scenarios seem fast-paced, real-life visits to the ER may involve a surprising amount of waiting. Between wait times and slow treatments, experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that the average patient spends a full two hours in the emergency room. During that time, many patients feel all but invisible. Doctors may be too rushed and too frenzied to respond appropriately to their concerns. This is no time to give up, however. The following tips will help you gain the attention you so desperately need at this critical time:

Don’t Minimize Your Symptoms

While it’s never acceptable to overstate your symptoms, patients more commonly take the opposite approach — they fail to share just how much they’re suffering.

Use clear and concise language to make the severity of your symptoms known. Use the following words or phrases if they apply to your situation:
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Abdominal pain
• Severe headache

Provide Accurate Information

The more information you provide, the better health care professionals can attend to your situation. Keep nurses and doctors on duty in the know about your allergies, current medications, and any other factors that may influence your care.

Have a Loved One Advocate On Your Behalf

Your suffering may render you less than effective as you attempt to speak up for yourself. A concerned friend or family member, however, can act as a powerful advocate. The more persistent a companion you can find, the better. This person can ask questions, provide necessary information about your current condition, and even serve as a calming influence as you wait.

Has emergency room neglect caused you to suffer? It’s time to secure justice with help from the team at Regan Zambri Long PLLC. Contact us today to learn more about our medical malpractice services.