When to Visit the ER: Advice from Cedar City Hospital’s Emergency Nurse Manager

Cedar City Hospital’s emergency department is undergoing major expansion, but even amid construction, the focus remains on delivering timely, expert care—especially in true emergencies. Emergency Nurse Manager Jake Fausett joined the Big Picture Morning Show on KSUB to share insights on when a trip to the ER is necessary and what patients can expect when they arrive.

Fausett, who has worked in emergency care for over a decade, said the ER is best suited for diagnosing and treating life-threatening conditions. “Anything to do with chest pain, shortness of breath, severe bleeding, broken bones, or serious trauma involving multiple areas—those are top reasons you should come see us,” Fausett said in the interview. “We're really good at finding and diagnosing life-threatening emergencies.”

He added that certain symptoms, even if not immediately dramatic, can signal severe underlying issues. Sepsis, for example, can sneak up on patients and escalate quickly. “If you're super sick and not getting better, especially with symptoms like elevated heart rate, low blood pressure, breathing issues, or changes in mental status, you should absolutely come to the ER,” Fausett advised.

Emergency Care Is Available 24 Hours A Day

The hospital’s ER is open 24/7, and Fausett emphasized they are ready to assess anyone concerned about their health. While urgent care facilities are helpful, they sometimes refer patients to the ER for more extensive testing or monitoring.

Upon arrival, patients are triaged—a process where nurses prioritize care based on severity. “It can be frustrating for someone waiting when they see another patient go straight back,” Fausett acknowledged. “But that patient might be experiencing chest pain, and we’re judged on how fast we can respond to possible heart attacks or strokes.”

Read More: Emergency Room Expansion Underway At Cedar City Hospital

Currently, the ER is expanding from 13 to 22 rooms, including more trauma bays and secure holding rooms. Despite construction, patient entry and triage remain unchanged, and Fausett assures the public that high-quality care continues uninterrupted.

For Fausett and the Cedar City Hospital team, the message is clear: If you think it’s an emergency—especially involving pain, trauma, or severe illness—they want to see you. “We’re here to help rule out that emergency and get you on the right path to recovery.”

You can listen to the entire interview with Jake Fausett in the podcast below.