A medical emergency can strike at any time. That's why it's important to be prepared to head to the emergency room at a moment's notice. PLAN by building a preparedness bag (or "go bag"), KNOW where your closest AdventHealth ER is located and GO when a medical emergency happens.
PLAN
ER Ready Kit
Have your emergency kit built and ready to go in your house so if you have an emergency, you can grab it quickly and head to your closest AdventHealth ER.
KNOW
Your Closest AdventHealth ER
Research the closest location to you in advance and pre-set the location on your phone so you don't have to worry about directions in the event of an emergency. Find your nearest AdventHealth ER.
Emergency Contact
Know who your emergency contact is in advance and let them know of their responsibility. They should know your medical history, medications you might be on and general personal information.
GO
Go To Your Closest AdventHealth ER
Make sure you have someone drive you there if possible and make sure to keep calm while getting there. If you’re experiencing a non-life threatening event, you have the option to choose your preferred AdventHealth ER location[WS1] .
Now is the time to plan. Learn what to put in your ER Go Bag in case of an emergency.
Items to Pack in Your ER Go Bag
Everyone has their own special needs. Here's a list of common items that might go in your bag.
List of Pertinent Medical Information
Consider keeping a list or information card in your go bag. Include the name and number of your primary care physician, a list of your medications, drug allergies and any advance directives you may have.
Water
Pack an extra bottle of water in your go bag to stay hydrated, freshen your hands or face
Cell Phone Charger
If you end up at the hospital, whether for hours or days, you'll need to charge your phone to stay in contact with your loved ones.
Non-Perishable Snacks
Have a healthy snack or two on hand and ensure they're items that won't spoil. Protein bars, nuts, crackers and trail mix are good options.
Change of Clothes
You don't know if you'll end up in the hospital overnight, so a change of clothes can make all the difference for your comfort. Wear something simple and comfortable like a T-shirt and a sweatshirt (so you have something for any time of year or temperature), sweatpants and underwear.
Don't worry about socks when you visit our hospitals. At AdventHealth, we provide comfortable, no-slip socks to keep you safe and warm.
First Aid Kit
A good first aid kit typically includes a thermometer, adhesive bandages, an ace bandage and clips, vinyl gloves, alcohol swabs, antibiotic ointment, ibuprofen and an antihistamine. You may also want to include feminine products. To make it easier, you can buy a self-contained, ready-made kit.
Something to Keep You Busy
Light entertainment during a long wait or stay can be so valuable. Earbuds so you can listen to music and a coloring book and crayons for children can easily be slipped into your bag and will be appreciated.
Comfort Item
Whether a stuffed toy for a child, a photograph of a loved one or a prayer card, choose something small and meaningful that will bring you peace, comfort and hope during an emergency.
What Not to Bring to the ER
Please note that the hospital is not responsible for lost or damaged items. You shouldn't bring jewelry or other valuables into the ER. We encourage you to send jewelry, credit cards, keys, important papers and large amounts of cash home with a family member for safekeeping. If you must bring valuables, please ask about placing them in the hospital's safe during your visit or stay.
Don't worry about bringing sleepwear or toiletries; we're happy to provide you with everything you need to make your stay more comfortable.
It's also important to know that while you're in the hospital, we are required by law to dispense all of your medications, so you can leave your prescriptions at home.
Whole-Person Care for Life's Unexpected Moments
At AdventHealth, it's not just your physical health that we attend to. It's also your peace of mind and your spiritual well-being. And part of keeping you well is helping you be prepared for the unexpected. While you may not need to use it, having a go bag on hand will help ease your stress in case of a medical emergency, and you can count on our dedicated ER teams to take care of the rest.
With 23 locations, the #1 ER in Central Florida is always near you — trusted care closer to home.
For more information on how to PLAN, KNOW and GO to your closest ER during a medical emergency, visit PlanKnowandGo.com.
