emergency department (redirected from Accident and emergency)

emergency department (ED),

(in a health care facility) a section of an institution that is staffed and equipped to provide rapid and varied emergency care, especially for those who are stricken with sudden and acute illness or who are the victims of severe trauma. The emergency department may use a triage system of screening and classifying clients to determine priority needs for the most efficient use of available personnel and equipment. Also called emergency room.

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emergency [e-mer´jen-se]

an unlooked for or sudden occurrence, often dangerous, such as an accident or an urgent or pressing need.

emergency department an area of a hospital especially equipped and staffed for emergency care. Popularly called emergency room.

emergency medical technician (EMT) a provider of emergency care (health care at the basic life support level); this may include spinal immobilization, administration of oxygen, and control of bleeding. In some states there are modular training programs where an EMT can add skills to the basic level.