Ben tries to save the life of a 2-year-old boy who was beaten. Guerrero threatens to reveal that O'Malley supplied him with cocaine. Jackson treats a homeless woman who claims she has sickle-cell anemia; and Prince threatens to bring legal action against Lillian and the hospital if she doesn't appoint him chief of surgery.

A man is admitted with a hatchet buried in his head. The staff caters to a crusty physician who will determine whether the hospital receives accreditation. Dr. Syphax confronts Ben over his feelings for Lillian; and Lillian makes a surprising decision that displeases O'Malley.

Lillian tries to get an 18-year-old gang member to accept responsibility for his newborn child. Ben tries to persuade Grace's frightened father to undergo surgery; and Wesley treats a gunshot dog when its 10-year-old owner, who has also been shot, refuses to enter the hospital if his pet can't come with him.

Ellis works overtime to prepare for her father's impending visit, causing her to grow cranky to the point of mistreating an obese patient. A circus clown attempts suicide. Peeler unwittingly gives damaging testimony against Ben; and Grace breaks up with Weiss.