Emergency Department at CHI Health St. Francis
The CHI Health St. Francis Emergency Room and Level III Trauma Center treat minor injuries to complex trauma cases, the care team has the skills and expertise to help in any situation. We are designated as a Primary Stroke Center, a Pediatric Ready Hospital and have the experts you know and trust.
Renovated ED Now Open
The renovated ED features a new canopy protecting our 24/7 entrance, enhanced waiting area with added privacy and natural light. Our 26-bed ED is built larger to accommodate new technology, added security and additional infection prevention features. Those seeking walk-in emergency care should use ENTRANCE G on the north side of St. Francis.
Newly Renovated ED Features
- Private consultation rooms
- 2 quick triage exam rooms
- 22 private treatment rooms
- Designated resuscitation room
- 2 behavioral health treatment rooms
- 5 isolation treatment rooms with negative pressure capabilities
- Large trauma bay that can support several critical patients
- Centralized nurse’s station with increased visibility to treatment rooms
- Advanced communication technology to assist with specialized care
- Specialized decontamination area
Pediatric Ready Hospital
In 2023 CHI Health St. Francis became the second hospital in Nebraska to be recognized as a Pediatric Ready Hospital by the Nebraska Emergency Medical Services for Children Committee. This designation is granted to hospitals with a high-quality foundation for emergency pediatric care.
What to Expect in the Emergency Department
When you enter the ER, you will be greeted by a triage nurse who is specially trained to assess how quickly you need treatment. In order to understand your medical needs, the triage nurse will take several vital signs such as blood pressure and temperature. The nurse will ask questions about the reason for your visit and assess your pain level. In order to provide the best care, it is important that you answer all questions accurately and completely. If you suspect a stroke or heart attack, tell the nurse immediately.
In the ER, it’s important that the most critical patients are treated first. Patients with life-threatening conditions need immediate attention, so patients with less urgent symptoms may have to wait, regardless of arrival time. In an emergency, every moment is critical. Whether a fall or a car crash, chest pain, or a stroke, it takes a highly trained team to quickly evaluate, stabilize, and treat each patient. At St. Francis, we’re committed to providing highly specialized emergency care quickly and compassionately.
Trauma Services at CHI Health St. Francis
St. Francis is designated a Level III Trauma Center by the State of Nebraska and verified by the American College of Surgeons. Every area of service that contributes to the healing process of our patients must meet rigorous requirements in skill and education to achieve this designation.
While most people associate trauma medicine with ambulances and the ER, trauma care involves a multitude of physicians, nurses, and support staff trained in diagnosing and treating patients who may have a several medical needs and coordinating care when seconds count.
Our trauma program and individual patient care is continually reviewed to ensure the use of the best evidence-based practices for trauma care and to maintain the verified status from the American College of Surgeons. Our health care professionals participate in continuing medical education to learn the most advance diagnosis and treatments and to offer education to first responders and critical access hospital staff to help raise the level of care offered across the region.