Dr. Josyann Abisaab

Josyann Abisaab and the Emergency Room

Getting to the Emergency Room can be somewhat overwhelming. You don’t feel good – or you are with someone you care about who doesn’t feel good – there is a lot of chaos around and it is only natural that panic will ensue. To avoid this – or least reduce its severity – there is some good advice out there which should render your first few moments somewhat easier.

Make sure you give the staff as much information as possible about your current status as well as your medical history and a list of drugs you are using. As well, know your blood type and other such vital information. If you are able to go with someone, ensure they are on the case if you are having difficulty communicating etc. Should you be alone, ask the personnel to contact someone on your behalf as having someone with you will make things much easier and help you relax.

Try to glean as much information from the caretakers as possible. First, this gives you necessary knowledge and second it shows you are engaged and the more you do this, the more attention the physicians will give to your care. Try to find the balance however between being assertive but not too pushy. You are allowed to request that anyone who examines you wash their hands before doing so as infections tend to run very high in hospitals.

They know this so won’t be offended; at times during the craziness of an ER, they may forget.

Josyann Abisaab is an ER physician who currently works at the Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City and is very accustomed to dealing with such situations.

Josyann Abisaab and Summer Fun Safety

Summer is a great time for potential fun for the whole family.  But unfortunately, as too many hospitals nationwide are witness to, it’s also a haven for potential disaster vis-à-vis the safety element.  Thus it is important to follow some basic rules to ensure you and your family  have a great summer, and keep safe at the same time. 

First, make sure you consume plenty of liquids, even when you are not thirsty.  When you’re exercising, ensure to up your beverage intake to a further 3 glasses.  Choose beverages that do not contain sugar or alcohol as this will simply result in further body fluid loss.  As well, people often make the mistake of going for extremely cold drinks, but this is wrong as they can lead to stomach cramps.  When you are outside, try to only be there during early morning and evening hours.  Avoid dark color and tight-fitting attire and be especially careful with young children and the elderly as they are even more prone to overheating. 

If you are struck with sunburn, be aware that the healing process takes a few days and that the best way to at least alleviate some of the pain is with a pain medication from the pharmacy and by keeping the area moisturized using an aloe based lotion.  You can use cold compresses or try and relax in a cool bath too.  But in general it’s always best to avoid this problem in the first place.

Josyann Abisaab works at the New York-Presbyterian Hospital as an MD in the Emergency Room.