A day's worth of trauma takes its toll on the men and women of the ER. Dr. Greene looks into leaving the ER and joining private practice. Among other events, multiple casualties are brought in when a building collapses. New medical students report for duty, including Dr. Benton's new trainee, the young and inexperienced John Carter.

Carol returns after her eight week absence, finding Doug holding himself responsible. Carter finds himself watching over a mysterious, mentally ill singing woman. Susan clashes with Dr. Kayson over a diagnosis. Dr. Greene treats a domestic violence victim.

A business contractor with a bad heart gathers his family around him in the ER as he prepares for the end. Dr. Ross helps an asthmatic teenage girl when her mother doesn't have the funds. Carter worries that he may have contracted an STD from Liz. Dr. Lewis treats a teenager with alcohol poisoning. Jenn Greene prepares to move to Milwaukee.