Going to the emergency room is no one's idea of a good time.  However, if you are a caregiver there probably will come a time when the need for care is urgent and you have to make the trip. Following are some ideas to make the trip a little more pleasant for everyone concerned.

If you think there is any chance you might have to go to the emergency room, have a small bag packed in advance.  You will be going together, so in addition to the toothbrush and nightclothes you might think to pack for your elder, both of you should have: 

• A sweater and a warm pair of socks for each of you, so you can take off your shoes and still be warm and comfortable. Emergency rooms tend to be cool.
  
  

• A sleep mask for your elder. These are  invaluable for someone who might nap in the ER if it weren't for the bright lights. 
  
  

• Ear plugs can also be handy if your loved one can tolerate them.
  
  

• Healthy snack items. The wait is often long, and hunger doesn't improve anyone's mood.  Pack snack packs of fruit, gelatin or pudding (don't forget the spoons), crackers, cookies, etc. Small juice boxes are a great alternative to the soda machine or stale coffee, and you might not be able to get away to the cafeteria.
  
  

• A 24-hour supply of whatever medications you both might be taking. Remember, you might not have the opportunity to go home to retrieve your own medication when you need it. Add a travel-size container of Tylenol or other over-the-counter headache medication for yourself, too.
  
  

• A notebook and pen. Information or instructions we hear when we are tired are easy to confuse or forget. On the first page(s) of this notebook enter names and phone numbers for the people you might have to contact.
  
  

• Several dollars in $1 bills and small change. A prepaid calling card is handy if you don't have a charged cell phone with long-distance roaming.
  
  

• Copies of important legal documents such as Power of Attorney, Living Will (Advanced Directive) or DNR (Do Not Resuscitate Order). 
  
  

• Something light to read. 
  
  

• Carry several copies of a written summary of the patient's past medical history, medications, allergies, and the physicians actively involved in care.  Use a form that can be easily updated and printed out.  Carry a copy with you and several in your ER bag. 
  Be able to explain exactly why you have come to the ER: 

          1. What is the problem? 
          2. When did it start? 
          3. Has it happened before?  If so, what was the treatment? 
          4. Has the patient received any treatment or medication? 

Use your notebook to keep track of the names of ER personnel who work with you. If a staff member goes off duty while you are there you may not remember their name if you have to make an inquiry.

Don't be afraid to speak up. Emergency rooms are very busy places. You may find yourself waiting a long time to be seen. Obviously, those who are most in need of emergency treatment will be seen first. However, if you think that you might have been forgotten, or if your elder is in pain, do not hesitate to ask politely for assistance.    

Use the chain of command.  If you have a problem that you feel is not being properly addressed, ask for the appropriate supervisor. If your problem has not been resolved, request to speak to the hospital patient representative. The hospital administrator is available, but it should be a rare situation that can't be resolved at a more immediate level. 

Don't forget your sense of humor. We tend to forget to bring it with us in times of stress, and it can be invaluable.