Sometimes we may get too sick to wait for the doctor's office to open. I hope you never have to go to the emergency room.
This dialogue is for practice and may help you if you ever need to rush to the hospital. Please enjoy and learn.
Patient: I feel very sick and need to be admitted to the hospital.
Nurse: Please let me see your insurance card if you have one.
Patient: Here it is and my ID.
Nurse: Thank you. Now tell me your symptoms.
Patient: I’ve been nauseous and running a fever since yesterday. Now my fever is much higher.
Nurse: We will check your temperature, but I need to know if you are taking any medication or if you had any vaccinations in the past week.
Patient: No, I took some aspirin and a cold medication yesterday. It was an over-the-counter medicine.
Nurse: So you've had no drugs, alcohol or medicines in the last 8 hours?
Patient: That’s right and I haven’t eaten anything either. I just can’t keep anything down.
Nurse: So, when have you vomited?
Patient: I threw up everything I ate or drank, so the last time was about 3 hours ago when I tried to drink some water.
Nurse: Are you allergic to any medications?
Patient: No, but I do have food allergies.
Nurse: What are they?
Patient: I’m allergic to milk, wheat and peanuts.
Nurse: OK, do you have any pain?
Patient: Yes, I have a cramp or similar pain in my abdomen.
Nurse: Ok, you do have a high fever. I’m admitting you. Can you answer questions about your medical history?
Patient: I’ll be happy to answer any questions. Just please help me get well.