What to Expect During Triage at the Veterinary ER

In any given metropolitan area, there is only a limited number of animal emergency hospitals. Therefore, there may be a lot of pets being treated at the veterinary ER at any given time. To ensure that every pet gets seen quickly and prioritize care for critically ill or seriously injured pets, veterinary hospitals like Emerald City Emergency Clinic use the process of triage to create a queue for patients waiting to see the veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment. 

How Triage Works

Triage is a common practice in emergency rooms, both for humans and for pets. Triage is not a formal diagnosis of your pet’s condition. Instead, it is a quick assessment of your pet’s condition to determine how urgent their case is and how soon they need to be seen by the veterinarian. A veterinary nurse will assess your pet for obvious signs of injuries and respiratory issues. They will also consider your pet’s level of alertness and take their vital signs. Finally, they’ll ask you about your pet’s current symptoms, what led to their injuries or symptoms, and if your pet has any preexisting conditions or currently takes any medications. 

Your pet’s status will fall into one of three categories: Critical, urgent, and stable. Pets in critical condition need to be treated immediately with potentially life-saving interventions like surgery or oxygen therapy. Pets in urgent condition are facing serious medical conditions and will need to be seen quickly. Pets in stable condition are able to function but still require care as soon as possible. If your pet’s symptoms change as you’re waiting for care, their status will be updated, and they may advance in the queue to see the veterinarian. 

Why Triage is Important 

Because there is such a wide range of conditions treated at the veterinary ER, it is important to prioritize the most serious injuries and illnesses first, regardless of a pet’s time of arrival. Triage ensures that all pets are seen as efficiently as possible and that pets in critical condition get the lifesaving care they need without delays that could cause complications. 

What Happens After Triage 

After triage, your pet may be seen by the veterinarian right away, or they may need to wait in the exam room or waiting room depending on the severity of their condition. Along with a physical exam, your pet may need to undergo additional diagnostic tests like blood counts, ultrasonography chemistry panels, virus screening, X-rays, cortisol testing, or urinalysis. Once a diagnosis is made, we will begin immediate treatment, which may include surgical care, pain management, medication, poison control consultations, IV fluid therapy, or oxygen therapy. 

Emerald City Emergency Clinic provides comprehensive emergency care for pets in Seattle, WA. We have a 24/7 nursing staff on site for pets who need to stay at our clinic overnight for extended care and observation. With radiologists onsite 24/7 and a partnership with Phoenix Central Laboratory, we can provide the most efficient diagnostic care to get your pet treated right away. If your pet is experiencing an emergency, do not hesitate to visit us right away. We are open 24/7/365. Call us at (206) 634-9000 to let us know you’re on the way.

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The recent Los Angeles wildfires have left many animals in urgent need of help. In the coming days, more and more animals suffering from burns and other injuries will require critical medical care.  

Lakefield is supporting @pasadenahumane, which has taken in over 400 animals since the fires began and is at capacity with drop-offs and goods donations. They are in greater need of monetary support to assist with treatment and ongoing care.  

We are doing our part by matching up to $5,000 for the Pasadena Humane to help support lifesaving care for these animals, you can donate directly through this social media post.   Together, we can make a difference.