Next Patient: The Incredible World of Emergency Medicine

The doors to the ER are always open, inviting the unknown, and continually awaiting the next patient. Any one of more than a thousand different diseases, injuries, or conditions might appear-including those the ER physician may have never seen or treated.

Instantaneous decisions and life-saving actions may be required immediately upon arrival. Other times, seemingly innocuous symptoms conceal a dangerous underlying disease about to threaten the patient's life. In some cases, tragic beginnings are transformed into rapid and amazing recoveries. Surprises, dilemmas, challenges, and even celebrations may occur at any moment.

In the midst of this unique and demanding environment exists a broad spectrum of personalities, attitudes, languages, beliefs, hopes, and desires. Circumstances and limited time may hinder communication. Intensity and emotion can run high.

In emergency medicine, lives can be changed forever- including those dedicated to caring for their patients.