Emergency departments
Monash Health emergency department locations
What to expect at Monash Health emergency departments
Monash Health emergency departments prioritise patients according to their medical need. Therefore, patients with a life threatening or emergency conditions may be seen before other more stable patients. It is also important to note that patients arriving via an ambulance do not automatically gain priority, and may in fact be asked to wait in the waiting room.
On arrival, the Triage Nurse will record details of your health concern and past history as well as your medications and allergies, including drug allergies. Depending on your condition you may be taken immediately into a cubicle or asked to take a seat in the waiting area. Your personal details will be recorded by a clerical staff member at reception.
Once in a cubicle, you will be seen by a nurse and a doctor. They will examine you and may order further tests. Should you have any concerns, in particular if your condition changes, please let either the triage nurse or the nurse caring for you know immediately. People can be either discharged after observation and care or admitted to hospital.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take the children with me to the emergency department?
The Emergency Department is a very busy place and may be hazardous for children. We request that children remain seated with family at all times.
Can I use my mobile phone to call relatives and friends?
All mobile phones must be switched off once inside the hospital, as they may cause interference with equipment. Please ask reception or a nurse for advice.
Can we visit a patient in the emergency department?
We understand that patients need the love and support of their family and friends. However, visitors need to be kept to a maximum of two at a time, due to space limitations within the department and out of respect for other patients. At times, visitors may be asked to wait outside the department.
Does it matter if I eat or drink before presenting to the emergency department?
We ask that patients do not eat or drink before seeing a doctor, as certain tests require a fasting time.
How can I get information on a patient in the emergency department?
Only immediate family may enquire about a patient’s condition. We ask that families nominate one person to be the contact point and keep calls to a minimum.
Why are people referred to a GP clinic?
At Dandenong and Clayton there is an after hours GP clinic. If the person’s condition does not require specialist emergency care we may refer the patient to the Clinic to be seen by one of Monash Health’s accredited general practitioners.
Why would a patient be transferred to another hospital?
Not all services are provided at every Monash Health hospital. The Emergency Department care will be the same but, depending on your ongoing needs, patients may be transferred to the hospital that has the specialty required for continued treatment.
Alternative services
If your situation is not an emergency, other treatment options can be considered. Visiting your local doctor or after hours medical centre will often result in shorter wait times and you’re likely to be treated by the same doctor each time. Alternatively, there are a range of helpful online and over the phone services for medical support.