[Reception, the first element of care in emergency departments]

The mission of an emergency department is to attend to any person arriving, at any time, whatever their condition, with the aim of treating them or transferring them to the most appropriate department. The approach often requires the provision of technical care meaning that relational care frequently takes a back seat. When the patient first arrives, the care is different, the patient-nurse interaction is essential. The role and the missions accorded to the triage nurse are fundamental in ensuring the patient receives quality care at this stage.