GUEST SERVICES
WI-FI INTERNET ACCESS UAB Medicine provides free public Wi-Fi service . To access it , simply choose the “ uabhs _ public ” network from your smartphone or other device . The Emergency Department also provides free phone charging stations . Simply place your device in the charging cubby , connect the device , then set the code and lock the door . Please limit your charging time when others are waiting .
VISITORS
• No more than 1 visitor is allowed in patient care rooms at a time ( some restrictions apply ).
• Visitors may be asked to remain in the waiting room .
• Children under 12 are not allowed in treatment areas .
• To protect privacy , please do not take photos or video in patient care areas .
UAB POLICE OFFICERS ARE ONSITE 24 / 7 FOR THE SAFETY OF PATIENTS , VISITORS , AND STAFF .
TRIAGE A nurse will evaluate you in a triage room to determine how urgent your condition or injury is and what type of care you may need . This screening process includes gathering information about your symptoms and checking your vital signs . When a treatment room becomes available , a staff member will call your name and escort you to it .
WAIT TIME Wait times can vary greatly depending on multiple factors , including :
• The current number of Emergency Department patients
• How serious their injuries or conditions are
• What types of testing they need
• The number of open hospital rooms for those who need to be admitted
Life-threatening emergencies are always addressed first , and this is why patients cannot be seen on a “ first-come , first-served ” basis . Thank you for your patience , and please know that we are working hard to ensure that every patient is seen as soon as possible .
If you feel that your condition has gotten worse during your wait , please return to the front desk for reevaluation .
LEAVING / STOPPING TREATMENT We hope you will allow us to address your medical needs . However , if you choose to leave before seeing a physician or want to stop treatment that is already in progress , please let a staff member know .
4 UAB Hospital-Highlands Emergency Department – Information Guide