The Emergency Department at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital is designed to provide emergency care for patients who are seriously ill or injured, or who are suffering from a life-threatening condition and who are unable to wait to be seen by their family physician.
People with worrisome chest pains, signs of stroke or severe breathing difficulties should call 911 for immediate care.
HDGH’s award-winning Emergency Department is open 24 hours per day, seven days per week. As the regional trauma and stroke centre, we see over 1000 patients a week and receive almost 1000 patients by ambulance every month.
In 2006, the ER team was honoured with the coveted Clinical Innovation Team Award for its groundbreaking work in applying LEAN principles to the department. Their hard work and efforts resulted in significantly reduced wait times for service and increased patient satisfaction and enhanced patient care. After one year, the average time to see a physician was cut in half to 80 minutes despite increases in patient visits. Walk-outs (those who leave ER without seeing a physician) declined from 10% to 3%, and changes to the ER stock room management resulted in departmental savings of over $20,000 per month. Morale has dramatically improved among the Nursing staff, and physicians are finding their work environment much more satisfying.
Parking
If you are driving to the Emergency, there is a small short-term Emergency parking lot. A pay and display machine accepts coins and credit cards.
What to Bring
- A valid Ontario Health Card
- All prescription, non-prescription and herbal medications you are currently taking
- Please leave all valuables at home
What to Expect
The Triage Process
When you arrive in the emergency department, you will be welcomed by a triage nurse who will decide how quickly you need treatment. The decision is made based on a history of your illness and a brief physical assessment. The ED does not function on a first-come, first-served basis: patients in most need are seen first. If an individual who arrived after you is treated first; it will be because the other person's problem is determined to be the more severe.
Why there is Waiting Time in the Emergency Department
Our Emergency team of healthcare professionals will make every effort to serve you as quickly as possible. However, despite our best efforts, there may be times when your wait to see a care provider in the ED may be prolonged due to a high number of patients seeking medical attention. We appreciate your patience if you are required to wait.
While You Are Waiting
- If your condition changes and you begin to feel worse, tell the triage nurse at once.
- Do not leave the department without telling the triage nurse. It is important that your illness or condition be assessed before you leave.
- Do not eat or drink anything until you ask the triage nurse. Some tests cannot be done if you have eaten.
- Have only one friend or family member wait with you. It will be less stressful for you and the waiting area will be less crowded.
- Since it may take some time for you to be treated, you are advised not to bring small children.
- Do not use your cell phone in the hospital. There is a public telephone adjacent to the ED for your convenience.
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