Dr. Mark Stansfield Sanderson – Emergency Room Doctor | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Mark Stansfield Sanderson 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 Kelowna, BC, he is a key member of the frontline medical team serving the community. He adheres to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Sanderson’s primary focus is on 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 to provide urgent and life-threatening care, with patients seen based on the severity of their condition, as determined by a triage process.

He graduated with his Medical Degree from the University of Calgary in 2016 and holds specialty certification as an Emergency Physician (FRCPC). Dr. Sanderson has completed extensive post-graduate training and possesses all the necessary certifications to practice as an Emergency Physician in British Columbia, ensuring he is well-equipped to handle complex emergency cases with expertise and professionalism.

Dr. Sanderson’s professional philosophy is rooted in a commitment to rapid and accurate assessment in critical situations. He strives to provide compassionate care under pressure, emphasizing effective teamwork and clear communication within the multidisciplinary ER team. His practice is guided by evidence-based emergency medicine protocols, with a strong focus on patient safety and advocacy. He is dedicated to delivering exceptional emergency care to the community of Kelowna, speaking English fluently, and always prioritizing the immediate needs of his patients.

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

Acute Cardiovascular Conditions

Dr. Sanderson manages encompassing life-threatening heart and circulatory problems frequently encountered and managed within the emergency department setting.

• Cardiac Arrhythmias (e.g., Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Response, Ventricular Tachycardia): Identifying and treating potential underlying causes or triggers of acute cardiac rhythm disturbances, such as electrolyte imbalances or ischemia.
• Hypertensive Emergencies: Identifying and addressing potential underlying causes of acute severe hypertension and arranging appropriate follow-up.

Acute Respiratory Conditions

Dr. Sanderson manages evaluating and treating sudden onset or severe worsening of breathing difficulties from various causes.

• COPD Exacerbation: Ensuring appropriate follow-up care post-discharge from the ER.
• Asthma Exacerbation / Status Asthmaticus: Aggressive and protocol-driven management of severe asthma attacks, including frequent administration of inhaled bronchodilators (beta-agonists and anticholinergics), systemic corticosteroids, and supplemental oxygen.

Trauma and Musculoskeletal Injuries

Dr. Sanderson manages managing acute fractures, dislocations, sprains, strains, open wounds, and other traumatic conditions with a focus on preventing complications and promoting healing.

• Soft Tissue Injuries (e.g., Contusions, Hematomas, Sprains): Educating patients on expected recovery times and rehabilitation strategies.
• Head Trauma / Concussion (Mild Traumatic Brain Injury): Prompt recognition and stabilization of patients with more severe traumatic brain injuries (e.g., intracranial hemorrhage, diffuse axonal injury), including measures to manage increased intracranial pressure and rapid coordination with neurosurgical and critical care teams.
• Minor and Major Lacerations, Abrasions, and Burns: Administration of tetanus prophylaxis and consideration of antibiotics for contaminated wounds or those at high risk of infection, along with detailed wound care instructions.

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.

• Resuscitation and Stabilization of Critically Ill Patients: Expert airway management, including endotracheal intubation, cricothyrotomy, and initiation of mechanical ventilation support in acute respiratory emergencies.
• Care for Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Diseases: Providing emergency interventions for complications arising from long-term medical conditions, aiming to restore baseline health status.
• 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).
• Treatment of Acute Infections and Sepsis: Administering appropriate antimicrobial agents for a wide range of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections presenting emergently.
• Management of Acute Pain and Symptom Relief: Prompt and effective symptom control for distressing conditions such as severe nausea, vomiting, acute shortness of breath, or systemic allergic reactions.
• Rapid Triage and Initial Medical Assessment: Quick and focused assessment of acute medical, surgical, or traumatic conditions to initiate timely diagnostic pathways.

Note: This list outlines key areas of emergency medical care. The services provided by Dr. Sanderson 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 is situated in the heart of Kelowna's Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, Downtown neighborhood. It is conveniently accessible from the Orchard Park Mall Area and well-integrated into the community’s healthcare infrastructure. Patients can reach the ER via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), and the hospital provides ample parking, including designated spots for emergency access. Clear signage guides patients to ER drop-off zones and parking facilities. The Emergency Department serves as a critical access point for urgent medical care, offering comprehensive services within a modern, fully accessible facility that prioritizes patient safety and timely intervention.

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. Sanderson 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.

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

The triage nurse in the ER performs a crucial initial assessment to rapidly evaluate how serious your condition is. They will ask about your symptoms, check your vital signs (like blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature), and assign you a triage level. This level dictates how quickly you need to be seen by an Emergency Room Doctor such as Dr. Sanderson, ensuring that patients with life-threatening conditions receive immediate care. They are a key part of the ER team that ensures patient safety and efficient flow.

When should I go to the Emergency Room (ER) where Dr. Sanderson 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. Sanderson, is focused on providing immediate care for emergencies.

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

Dr. Sanderson 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.

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

The main responsibility of an Emergency Room Doctor like Dr. Sanderson, a an Emergency Physician certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, specializing in acute care., is to care for patients with acute medical problems that require immediate attention. They are experts at quickly assessing patients, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, initiating life-saving treatments, and performing a variety of emergency procedures. They manage everything from severe trauma and cardiac arrests to less critical but still urgent issues, ensuring patients are stabilized and receive appropriate next steps in their care.

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

Yes, it is standard practice for the Emergency Room, including when you are seen by Dr. Sanderson, 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.

2268 Pandosy St, Emergency Department
Kelowna, BC V1Y 1T2

Hospital Main Line: (403) 343-4422

The hospital Emergency Department is fully accessible to all patients.

Dr. Sanderson 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. Sanderson or the on-duty emergency team.

Verify Dr. Sanderson's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/354263/Sanderson%2CMark