Obtaining images must never take precedence over clinical evaluation and continuous monitoring of potentially unstable patients. Whenever possible, imaging should be accomplished at the bedside for unstable patients. Portable chest radiography and bedside ultrasound often provide valuable information without compromising care. However, many patients will subsequently require more intensive imaging studies that will involve the transportation of the patient outside of the ED proper.

Up-to-date planning and designing of facilities can help to limit distance and time outside the ED. Current use of computed tomography for the acute evaluation of patients is so extensive that it makes very good sense to have the CT facility in or adjacent to the ED. As the use of MRI expands and more acute indications are explored, the location of MRI units in close proximity to the ED will also become more advantageous.