About
Dr. Steven Wayne Wilfred Fisher 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. He adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Fisher’s role involves the rapid assessment, diagnosis, and stabilization of a broad spectrum of urgent and emergent medical, surgical, and traumatic conditions across all age groups. He is skilled in 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 prioritized based on the severity of their condition through a triage process.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Alberta in 2005. Dr. Fisher has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice as an Emergency Physician (CCFP-EM) in Alberta. His professional credentials are complemented by key certifications in advanced emergency medicine practices, ensuring he maintains current standards of care and clinical excellence.
Dr. Fisher’s professional philosophy emphasizes the importance of rapid, accurate assessment in critical situations, providing compassionate and patient-centered care under pressure. He values effective teamwork and communication within the multidisciplinary ER team, adhering strictly to evidence-based emergency medicine protocols. His dedication is focused on prioritizing patient safety, advocating for patient needs in acute settings, and delivering emergency care in English to serve the diverse Edmonton community efficiently.
Dr. Steven Fisher 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. Fisher manages specializing in the initial resuscitation and care of patients with significant or multiple traumatic injuries.
- Head Trauma / Concussion (Mild Traumatic Brain Injury): Providing anticipatory guidance regarding potential post-concussive symptoms and when to seek further medical attention.
- Soft Tissue Injuries (e.g., Contusions, Hematomas, Sprains): Providing advice on the principles of RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and appropriate analgesia for acute soft tissue injuries.
- Fractures, Dislocations, and Sprains/Strains: Careful assessment of neurovascular status distal to injuries to promptly identify and manage any compromise.
Acute Cardiovascular Conditions
Dr. Fisher manages encompassing life-threatening heart and circulatory problems frequently encountered and managed within the emergency department setting.
- Acute Heart Failure Exacerbation: Identifying and treating precipitating factors for heart failure decompensation.
- Aortic Dissection / Aneurysm (Suspected): Initial stabilization including aggressive blood pressure and heart rate control, and securing urgent surgical (cardiothoracic or vascular) consultation.
- Cardiac Arrhythmias (e.g., Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Response, Ventricular Tachycardia): Providing immediate care for patients at risk of cardiac arrest due to arrhythmias.
Acute Respiratory Conditions
Dr. Fisher manages focusing on restoring adequate oxygenation and ventilation in patients with emergent pulmonary issues.
- Pulmonary Embolism: Prompt initiation of anticoagulation therapy for confirmed PE, or thrombolytic therapy for hemodynamically unstable (massive) PE.
- Pneumonia (Severe or Complicated): Assessing need for hospitalization versus outpatient management based on severity scores.
- COPD Exacerbation: Ensuring appropriate follow-up care post-discharge from the ER.
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.
- Diagnostic Workup for Acute Conditions: Utilizing point-of-care testing (POCT) and bedside imaging to expedite diagnosis in critical and time-sensitive situations.
- Care for Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Diseases: Addressing acute deteriorations in patients with known chronic diseases, often requiring adjustment of their usual therapies.
- 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: Vigilant monitoring and supportive care for patients with severe infections, including fluid management and organ support.
- 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.
- Rapid Triage and Initial Medical Assessment: Initial history taking, focused physical examination, and vital signs assessment for emergent and urgent conditions upon arrival.
Note: This list outlines key areas of emergency medical care. The services provided by Dr. Fisher 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 neighbourhood, near Boyle Street and Riverdale, is a critical access point for urgent medical care within the community. Situated close to 4th Street Promenade and accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes, the facility ensures convenient access for patients. The hospital’s Emergency Department is fully accessible to all patients, with designated parking spots for emergency access. Clear hospital signage directs patients to ER drop-off zones and parking areas. The department operates 24/7, providing high-acuity care in a modern, well-equipped environment that is integrated with comprehensive hospital services to meet the diverse needs of the community.
- What should I bring with me if I need to go to the Emergency Room where Dr. Fisher works?
- To help Dr. Fisher 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.
- When should I go to the Emergency Room (ER) where Dr. Fisher 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. Fisher 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.
- When should I see Dr. Fisher in the ER versus my family doctor for a health issue?
- The Emergency Room, where Dr. Fisher practices, is designed for urgent and emergency situations—conditions that require immediate medical intervention to prevent serious harm or death. Your family doctor, on the other hand, provides comprehensive primary care, including treatment for common illnesses, management of long-term health conditions, immunizations, and preventative screening. For problems that are not immediate emergencies, your family doctor can provide more personalized and continuous care. If you have a non-urgent issue, the ER may involve a long wait.
- What is the primary role of an Emergency Room Doctor like Dr. Fisher?
- An Emergency Room Doctor, such as Dr. Fisher, is a physician specifically trained to provide immediate medical evaluation and treatment for a wide spectrum of acute illnesses and injuries, ranging from minor concerns to critical, life-threatening emergencies. Their core role involves rapid assessment (triage and diagnosis), stabilization of vital functions, performing necessary emergency procedures, and making crucial decisions about patient disposition (admission, transfer, or discharge). As a an Emergency Physician with certification from the College of Family Physicians of Canada in Emergency Medicine, skilled in managing urgent medical conditions, Dr. Fisher is highly skilled in managing the unpredictable and often high-pressure environment of the emergency department, working collaboratively with a team of nurses, technicians, and other specialists.
- Will my family doctor be informed about my visit to the ER with Dr. Fisher?
- Maintaining communication with your family doctor is crucial for your ongoing health management. After your assessment and treatment by Dr. Fisher 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. Fisher 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.
10240 Kingsway NW
Edmonton, AB T5H 3V9
Hospital Main Line: (780) 735-4443
The hospital Emergency Department is fully accessible to all patients.
Dr. Fisher 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. Fisher or the on-duty emergency team.
Verify Dr. Fisher's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=87e6cad8-2819-4a81-a8e3-89016551d8e1&i=470