Emergency Services

Sault Area Hospital’s Emergency Department and Fast Track Clinic treat over 60,000 patients per year. On average, almost 150 patients come through our Emergency doors every day.
 
We are here to care for you when you need it the most – during an emergency. In the Emergency Department, patients who are the sickest are treated first. Less urgent patients are sent to the Fast Track Clinic for treatment where they are usually seen in order of their arrival.
 

Residents in Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding area are also encouraged to consider alternate medical clinics in the city for treatment of  non-urgent medical conditions.


Why do I have to wait?
We regret that there are times when your visit to the Emergency Department may take several hours. Your wait time depends on the number of doctors we have on duty, the number of patients that are waiting for care, and the amount or type of care they require. Your wait is also longer if you require an x-ray or blood test, if you need to see a specialist, or if you need to be admitted.

The Emergency Department may appear quiet in the waiting room, but it may be very busy in the area where patients are being treated. We are doing our best to care for you as quickly as possible. Your co-operation helps us provide more timely care.
 
What if my condition gets worse?
The Triage Nurse at the front desk is trained to prioritize patients upon their arrival. If your condition changes while you are waiting for treatment, please advise the nurse immediately.

Are visitors allowed in the Emergency treatment area?
Yes. Before visitors can enter the Emergency treatment area, they must check in with the Triage Nurse. Only one visitor is allowed at a time. Exceptions are made in special cases, usually decided by the nurse in charge. Fewer people in the treatment area helps to ensure hospital staff have enough space to perform their duties quickly and maintain privacy for all patients.

Why is Security staff in the Emergency Department?
Security is visible and available for the safety of patients, visitors and staff. Feel free to approach them with any security concerns or questions. Sault Area Hospital is committed to providing a safe, respectful environment for all staff and patients. Abuse is not tolerated.

When should I go to Emergency?
Here are some examples of when you should go to Emergency:
  • You have pain or tightness in the chest
  • You have broken bones or need stitches
  • You are experiencing shortness of breath
  • You have fainted and are feeling weak
  • Your child has diarrhea and vomiting and will not eat or drink
  • Your baby (under six months of age) has a fever of 38 C (100.4 F) or higher
If you are not sure whether your problem is urgent, do not hesitate to come to Emergency or call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 for free access to a Registered Nurse who can assess symptoms and help you decide your next step.

What to Bring:
  1. Your OHIP card (red and white or green with photo)
  2. A list of the medications that you take, or the bottles
  3. Any records you may have concerning your health
Emergency is open 24 hours daily. The Fast Track Clinic is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

 

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