Emergency Admission
Northridge Hospital is only one of two trauma centers in all of the San Fernando Valley. Therefore, our ED may be very crowded and your admission may take longer than expected as trauma cases demand immediate attention.
The average ED wait time in California is four hours. We understand how difficult it is to wait - especially while in pain - however, we ask for your patience. Our staff works hard to ensure you are seen as soon as possible. Laboratory work and other tests ordered by your doctor may be done before you go to your room.
Direct Admission
The first step in your hospitalization process is to be admitted as a patient to the Hospital. An Access to Care associate will help you complete the necessary forms and discuss your stay.
A plastic ID band is placed on your wrist. You must wear your patient ID band until you are discharged as hospital staff will be checking it frequently for your safety.
We can also answer questions about your bill during the admission process and throughout your stay.
Your Room
Laboratory work and other tests ordered by your doctor may be done before you go to your room. When you arrive at your room, our staff will explain how the bed works and how to use the call system, TV and phone. You will also view a patient orientation video to familiarize you further with your room.
You will receive a comprehensive initial assessment by your nurse. This includes your Individualized Plan of Care and a physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and functional evaluation. This information helps us identify and prioritize your personalized treatment plan.
A clinical pharmacist is also available to discuss any medication concerns. If you are unable to use a hand-held nurse call system device, please inform your nurse. If at any time, you don’t understand what your care team or doctor is explaining to you, please ask.
| PLEASE NOTE: Out of respect for our patients, Northridge Hospital has developed a system by which you can give a privacy code to your family member(s) who wish to receive limited information if you are unavailable. The privacy code will be written on a card and given to you when you are admitted to the hospital. |
