Dr. Brendon Gordon Trotter – Emergency Room Doctor | Nanaimo, BC

Dr. Brendon Gordon Trotter is an experienced Emergency Physician (FRCPC), committed to delivering high-quality acute medical care to patients presenting to the Emergency Department. Practicing at the Emergency Department in Nanaimo, BC, he is a key member of the frontline medical team serving the community. Dr. Trotter adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). He is skilled in the rapid assessment, diagnosis, and stabilization of a broad spectrum of urgent and emergent medical, surgical, and traumatic conditions in patients of all ages. This includes managing time-sensitive situations, performing necessary emergency procedures, and coordinating care effectively within the fast-paced ER environment. The Emergency Department operates 24/7, ensuring timely access to urgent care for the community, with patients seen based on the severity of their condition as determined by a triage process.

He has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice as an Emergency Physician (FRCPC) in British Columbia. Dr. Trotter graduated with his MD from the University of Calgary in 2008 and has since dedicated his career to emergency medicine. His certifications include certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his specialization and commitment to maintaining high standards of practice in emergency care.

Dr. Trotter's professional philosophy centers on providing rapid, accurate, and compassionate care in critical situations. He emphasizes effective teamwork and communication within the multidisciplinary ER team, adherence to evidence-based emergency medicine protocols, and a steadfast commitment to patient safety. His approach prioritizes delivering timely, patient-centered care while advocating for the needs of those experiencing urgent health issues. Dr. Trotter delivers emergency care in English and is dedicated to serving the community of Nanaimo with professionalism and compassion.

Dr. Brendon Trotter is experienced in assessing and managing a wide array of acute medical and surgical emergencies, including (but not limited to):

Acute Cardiovascular Conditions

Dr. Trotter manages related to urgent cardiac or vascular issues, such as acute chest pain, suspected heart attacks, severe arrhythmias, and hypertensive crises.

• Cardiac Arrhythmias (e.g., Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Response, Ventricular Tachycardia): Prompt diagnosis and emergency management of hemodynamically significant abnormal heart rhythms, including electrical cardioversion, pharmacological cardioversion, or rate control strategies.
• Aortic Dissection / Aneurysm (Suspected): Initial stabilization including aggressive blood pressure and heart rate control, and securing urgent surgical (cardiothoracic or vascular) consultation.
• Hypertensive Emergencies: Monitoring vital signs and end-organ function closely during treatment.

Acute Respiratory Conditions

Dr. Trotter manages providing immediate care for patients experiencing acute respiratory distress or failure.

• Pneumothorax (Spontaneous or Traumatic): Emergency treatment of tension pneumothorax, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate needle decompression followed by chest tube placement.
• Acute Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Prioritizing life-threatening causes of dyspnea for rapid intervention.
• Pulmonary Embolism: Providing patient education on anticoagulation and follow-up post-diagnosis.

Trauma and Musculoskeletal Injuries

Dr. Trotter manages employing evidence-based approaches to treat musculoskeletal trauma and facilitate appropriate follow-up.

• Multiple Trauma / Polytrauma (Initial Stabilization and Resuscitation): Initiating damage control resuscitation principles, including hemorrhage control, blood product administration, and prevention of hypothermia and coagulopathy.
• Head Trauma / Concussion (Mild Traumatic Brain Injury): Concurrent assessment for associated injuries, particularly cervical spine trauma, in all patients with significant head injuries.

This list is not exhaustive. The Emergency Department is equipped to handle a broad spectrum of urgent health issues. If you believe you have a medical emergency, please proceed to the nearest ER or call emergency services.

• Rapid Triage and Initial Medical Assessment: Quick and focused assessment of acute medical, surgical, or traumatic conditions to initiate timely diagnostic pathways.
• Diagnostic Workup for Acute Conditions: Ordering and interpreting urgent laboratory tests (blood work, urinalysis, cardiac markers, etc.) and imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds).
• Care for Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Diseases: Providing emergency interventions for complications arising from long-term medical conditions, aiming to restore baseline health status.
• Management of Acute Pain and Symptom Relief: Tailoring pain relief strategies to individual patient needs and the nature of their acute presentation.
• Resuscitation and Stabilization of Critically Ill Patients: Expert airway management, including endotracheal intubation, cricothyrotomy, and initiation of mechanical ventilation support in acute respiratory emergencies.
• Treatment of Acute Infections and Sepsis: Vigilant monitoring and supportive care for patients with severe infections, including fluid management and organ support.

Note: This list outlines key areas of emergency medical care. The services provided by Dr. Trotter are tailored to the immediate needs of patients in acute situations.

All emergency medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant CAEP (Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians) and relevant acute care guidelines. Emergency care is prioritized based on medical urgency.

The Emergency Department in Nanaimo is situated in the Central Nanaimo neighbourhood, within close proximity to the Nanaimo Museum. Accessible via the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit), the hospital provides convenient access for patients and visitors. The hospital Emergency Department is fully accessible to all patients, with clear signage directing to ER patient drop-off and parking. Hospital parking is available, including designated spots for emergency access. As a critical access point for urgent medical care within the community, the ER integrates seamlessly with comprehensive hospital services to ensure rapid response and high-quality care for all emergency needs.

What is the primary role of an Emergency Room Doctor like Dr. Trotter?

Dr. Trotter, as a an Emergency Physician certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, specializing in acute care., specializes in emergency medicine. This field focuses on the immediate decision-making and action necessary to prevent death or further disability both in the pre-hospital setting (by directing emergency medical services) and in the emergency department. Their primary focus is on diagnosing undifferentiated acute conditions, resuscitating and stabilizing patients who are critically ill or injured, providing pain relief and symptom control, and coordinating comprehensive care for a diverse patient population presenting with urgent medical needs.

When should I go to the Emergency Room (ER) where Dr. Trotter works, versus seeing my family doctor or going to a walk-in clinic?

You should visit the ER for conditions that you believe could be life-threatening, limb-threatening, or could cause serious harm if not treated quickly. This includes symptoms like sudden severe pain (especially chest, abdominal, or head), difficulty breathing, suspected broken bones from a significant injury, uncontrolled bleeding, sudden changes in vision or neurological function, or if you've been advised to go by another healthcare provider. For less urgent concerns like mild colds, chronic pain management, or routine follow-ups, your family physician or a local urgent care/walk-in clinic is the better choice. ERs prioritize the most critical patients, meaning wait times for non-urgent issues can be considerable. The team, including Dr. Trotter, is focused on providing immediate care for emergencies.

What should I bring with me if I need to go to the Emergency Room where Dr. Trotter works?

When coming to the Emergency Room, please ensure you have your health insurance card (e.g., OHIP, AHCIP, MSP, RAMQ card). It's also extremely beneficial for Dr. Trotter and the medical team if you can provide an accurate list of all medications you are currently taking (including over-the-counter drugs and supplements), a list of any allergies you have, and details of any important past medical conditions or surgeries. If you are accompanying someone else, try to have this information for them.

What is the role of the triage nurse when I arrive at the ER?

When you arrive at the Emergency Room, a specially trained triage nurse will be one of the first healthcare professionals you see. Their role is to quickly assess the urgency of your medical condition based on your symptoms, vital signs, and a brief history. This assessment helps determine your priority for treatment relative to other patients. The triage nurse ensures that the most critically ill or injured patients are seen by an ER doctor like Dr. Trotter as quickly as possible. They may also initiate some basic tests or interventions while you wait.

Will my family doctor be informed about my visit to the ER with Dr. Trotter?

Maintaining communication with your family doctor is crucial for your ongoing health management. After your assessment and treatment by Dr. Trotter in the Emergency Room, a report of your visit is generally forwarded to your primary care physician, especially if follow-up care or medication adjustments are necessary. To facilitate this, please make sure the ER registration staff have the correct contact details for your family doctor.

Why are wait times in the Emergency Room sometimes long?

Wait times in the Emergency Room can fluctuate significantly due to several factors. The primary reason is the triage process: patients with the most severe and time-sensitive conditions are treated immediately. If many critically ill patients arrive simultaneously, or if the department is experiencing high patient volumes or staffing challenges, those with less acute problems may face longer waits. Dr. Trotter and the ER staff understand that waiting can be frustrating and are committed to providing efficient care while ensuring the safety and well-being of all patients.

When should I see Dr. Trotter in the ER versus my family doctor for a health issue?

Dr. Trotter and the Emergency Room team are best equipped to handle acute, severe, or potentially life-threatening medical conditions. For ongoing care, management of chronic illnesses (unless there's an acute exacerbation), routine check-ups, preventative health measures, prescription refills for stable conditions, and non-urgent health concerns, your family doctor is the most appropriate healthcare provider. They offer continuity of care and have a comprehensive understanding of your overall health history. If your condition is not an emergency, consulting your family doctor or a walk-in clinic is generally recommended.

1200 Dufferin Cres, Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine
Nanaimo, BC V9S 2B7

Hospital Main Line: (250) 755-7691

The hospital Emergency Department is fully accessible to all patients.

Dr. Trotter is a licensed Emergency Physician (FRCPC) regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Emergency Room services are typically accessed by presenting directly to the Emergency Department or via ambulance (e.g., by calling 911) for urgent medical conditions. No direct referral is usually required to be seen in the ER by Dr. Trotter or the on-duty emergency team.

Verify Dr. Trotter's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/380102/Trotter%2CBrendon