Understanding Patient Behavior in Emergency Rooms

Emergency rooms (ERs) are facing increasing challenges not only from patient influx but also from disruptive behaviors exhibited by patients and their families. Medical professionals are highlighting the need for improved patient conduct to ensure a more efficient and supportive environment for all.

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Emergency departments are designed to prioritize life-threatening conditions, such as heart attacks and strokes, over less critical issues. This prioritization often leads to long wait times for patients with non-emergency complaints. Dr. Jared L. Ross, a board-certified emergency physician, emphasizes that patients may not fully understand the severity of their conditions compared to others, which can lead to frustration and conflict.

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Dr. J. David Gatz, associate medical director of the Adult Emergency Department at the University of Maryland Medical Center, and Kisha Pickford, an acute care nurse practitioner, are among the healthcare professionals addressing these issues. They report that patient behavior, including verbal and physical aggression, has become a significant concern in ERs.

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Healthcare workers have observed a troubling trend of patients acting out in stressful situations. Incidents include breaking equipment, throwing food, and even calling 911 from within the ER to complain about wait times. Such behaviors not only disrupt the care process but can also endanger other patients. Nurse Karen Selby notes that large groups accompanying patients can create chaos, further complicating the staff's ability to provide timely care.

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Healthcare professionals urge patients to practice patience and courtesy during their visits. Dr. Ross advises that individuals should consider whether their condition truly necessitates an ER visit, suggesting alternatives like urgent care for non-emergencies. He states, “There are a lot of patients who come to the ER and don’t need to be seen there,” highlighting the importance of self-triage.

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The growing tensions in ERs can lead to delays in care for critical patients and contribute to a stressful environment for both staff and patients. As ER visits are among the most expensive forms of medical care, understanding when to seek emergency treatment can alleviate some of the pressures on these facilities.

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• “Patients and their families come to the Emergency Department on their worst and most stressful days, and we’re here to support them through it,” — Dr. J. David Gatz, Associate Medical Director

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• “Demanding to be seen ‘right now’ will disrupt staff focus, scare other patients and create unnecessary tension in an already high-stress environment,” — Kisha Pickford, Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

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• “Who you bring with you to the ER matters,” — Karen Selby, Registered Nurse

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As emergency departments continue to navigate these challenges, there is a pressing need for initiatives aimed at educating patients about appropriate ER use and the importance of maintaining a respectful environment.

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