April 03, 2025
Episode 02
Hey everyone! I’m Dr. Monique Nugent, and welcome back to the Prescription for Admission podcast.
In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Dr. Tola Johnson, a brilliant emergency medicine physician, and together we dive into the real deal behind what happens in the emergency department (ED)—and what patients and families should really know before they walk through those sliding glass doors.
We talk about triage, patient safety, and why self-advocacy in the ED can be lifesaving. Whether you’ve visited the ER before, support someone who has, or simply want to feel more empowered in your healthcare journey, this episode is a must-listen.
Episode Notes
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What it takes to become an emergency physician and why it’s truly a calling
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The purpose and process of triage: why some people are seen faster than others
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How the ED acts as a safety net for people with no other healthcare access
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Common misunderstandings about ED visits—and what realistic expectations should be
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Why hospital admissions sometimes happen for safety, not just medical reasons
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The truth about e-bike injuries and what we’re seeing more of in real hospital settings
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How knowing your medical history and meds can fast-track your care
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Why bringing a support person makes all the difference in the ED
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What you need to know about self-advocacy when things don’t feel right
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How media and TV shows often misrepresent emergency medicine
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Key Takeaways
Here are the essentials I want you to walk away with after this episode:
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The emergency room is often the only part of the hospital many people ever experience—understanding how it works matters.
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Emergency medicine is about fast decisions, safety-first thinking, and coordinated teamwork.
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Triage helps prioritize the sickest patients first, not those who arrived earliest.
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It’s more important to leave with a care plan than a diagnosis.
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Expect to see many providers: from triage nurses to attending physicians to techs.
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Communicate! If you feel unsafe going home, speak up. Self-advocacy saves lives.
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Bring an updated medication list and know your own medical history—it helps us help you.
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The ED is chaotic, but it’s also filled with people who care deeply about patient care.
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Hospital admissions may be made for social or safety reasons—both are valid.
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Stick with the same healthcare system when possible for smoother transitions.
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E-bike accidents are on the rise—please wear protective gear!
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Whether you’re a caregiver, a patient, or a healthcare professional yourself, this episode helps demystify the emergency room and offers practical, life-saving tips for navigating the system.
Follow on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode, and feel free to share this one with someone who might need it. Let’s keep advocating—for ourselves and for each other.