Dr. Ian James Sinclair Williamson – Emergency Room Doctor | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Ian James Sinclair Williamson is an experienced Emergency Physician (CCFP-EM), committed to delivering high-quality acute medical care to patients presenting to the Emergency Department. Practicing at the Emergency Department in Edmonton, AB, he is a key member of the frontline medical team serving the community. Dr. Williamson adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that his practice aligns with provincial regulations and best practices. 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.

He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 2010. He holds specialty certification as an Emergency Physician (CCFP-EM) and has completed extensive post-graduate training. Dr. Williamson maintains the necessary certifications to practice as an Emergency Physician in Alberta, including certifications in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS). His commitment to ongoing professional development ensures he remains current with the latest evidence-based emergency medicine protocols and practices.

Dr. Williamson's professional philosophy centers on providing rapid and accurate assessment in critical situations, delivering compassionate care under pressure, and fostering effective teamwork and communication within the multidisciplinary ER team. He prioritizes patient safety, advocates for patient needs in acute settings, and adheres to established clinical guidelines to optimize outcomes. His dedication to the community of Edmonton is reflected in his focus on delivering efficient, respectful, and patient-centered emergency care in English.

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

Trauma and Musculoskeletal Injuries

Dr. Williamson manages offering immediate assessment, pain management, and stabilization for various physical injuries encountered in the emergency department setting.

• Multiple Trauma / Polytrauma (Initial Stabilization and Resuscitation): Arranging for definitive surgical care or transfer to a designated trauma center as appropriate.
• Head Trauma / Concussion (Mild Traumatic Brain Injury): Comprehensive evaluation of patients presenting with head injuries, including detailed neurological assessment (e.g., GCS, cranial nerve exam) and application of clinical decision rules (e.g., Canadian CT Head Rule) to determine the need for CT imaging.
• Soft Tissue Injuries (e.g., Contusions, Hematomas, Sprains): Determining the need for further imaging or specialist follow-up based on the severity and nature of the injury.

Acute Cardiovascular Conditions

Dr. Williamson manages addressing emergent conditions of the cardiovascular system that can lead to significant morbidity or mortality if not promptly diagnosed and treated.

• Cardiac Arrhythmias (e.g., Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Response, Ventricular Tachycardia): Utilizing advanced EKG interpretation skills for accurate arrhythmia diagnosis.
• Chest Pain (e.g., suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome, Myocardial Infarction): Rapid evaluation and risk stratification of patients presenting with chest pain to rule out or confirm life-threatening causes like acute myocardial infarction (heart attack), unstable angina, or pulmonary embolism.

Acute Respiratory Conditions

Dr. Williamson manages managing urgent conditions that significantly impair breathing and lung function, demanding prompt and effective medical intervention.

• Pneumonia (Severe or Complicated): Management of pneumonia complications such as empyema, lung abscess, significant pleural effusion, or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
• COPD Exacerbation: Careful assessment for signs of respiratory failure and the need for supplemental oxygen or ventilatory support (non-invasive or invasive).

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.

• Care for Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Diseases: Managing acute flare-ups of chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, diabetes (e.g., DKA, HHS), or sickle cell crisis.
• Management of Acute Pain and Symptom Relief: Focusing on rapid alleviation of severe symptoms to improve patient comfort and facilitate further diagnostic or therapeutic interventions.
• Diagnostic Workup for Acute Conditions: Formulating differential diagnoses for a wide range of undifferentiated acute symptoms through systematic investigation.
• Diagnosis of Life-Threatening Emergencies: Swift and accurate diagnosis of critical pathologies to facilitate immediate and appropriate therapeutic measures.
• Treatment of Acute Infections and Sepsis: Performing source control measures for infections where appropriate in the ER setting, such as incision and drainage of abscesses.
• Resuscitation and Stabilization of Critically Ill Patients: Implementing Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) interventions as required.

Note: This list outlines key areas of emergency medical care. The services provided by Dr. Williamson 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 Alberta (CPSA) 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 Edmonton's Downtown East, Boyle Street, Riverdale neighborhood is a vital healthcare facility providing urgent medical care to the local community. Situated near the 4th Street Promenade, the department is easily accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including Light Rail Transit (LRT) and bus routes. The hospital's Emergency Department is fully accessible to all patients, with clear signage guiding visitors to ER patient drop-off points and parking facilities. Hospital parking is available with designated spots for emergency access. The facility is a critical access point for urgent medical care, functioning as part of a comprehensive hospital system that offers specialized services and advanced medical interventions. It serves as a primary gateway for patients experiencing sudden health crises, ensuring timely, expert care in a high-acuity environment.

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. Williamson 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. Williamson?

Yes, it is standard practice for the Emergency Room, including when you are seen by Dr. Williamson, to send a detailed summary of your ER visit to your designated family doctor, provided you share their contact information during registration. This report typically includes the reason for your visit, significant findings, any treatments administered, and recommendations for follow-up. This ensures continuity of care and keeps your family doctor informed about important changes in your health status. Following up with your family doctor after an ER visit is usually recommended.

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

To help Dr. Williamson and the ER staff provide the best care, please bring your government-issued health card. A list of all medications you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, is also vital. Knowing your allergies and any chronic health conditions or previous major surgeries will also help the team. If you regularly see other specialists, their contact information might also be useful.

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

Deciding between the ER and other care options depends on severity. The Emergency Room is the correct place for acute, potentially severe conditions like difficulty breathing, chest pain, signs of a stroke, major trauma, severe allergic reactions, or uncontrolled bleeding. For ongoing health issues, minor ailments, or routine care, your family doctor offers continuity. Walk-in clinics can handle less severe acute issues. Dr. Williamson and the ER staff are prepared for urgent and life-threatening situations; using the ER appropriately helps ensure timely care for those who need it most. If in doubt about a serious condition, seek emergency assessment.

10240 Kingsway NW
Edmonton, AB T5H 3V9

Hospital Main Line: (780) 735-4443

The hospital Emergency Department is fully accessible to all patients.

Dr. Williamson is a licensed Emergency Physician (CCFP-EM) regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. 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. Williamson or the on-duty emergency team.

Verify Dr. Williamson's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=044d46ab-9887-4b7e-8fa7-2fe650e0a63b&i=1554