ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7ReadingHard
A medical assistant is reviewing a new patient's intake form. The patient indicates they have a 'history of seasonal allergies' and 'currently taking OTC antihistamines PRN'. Additionally, under 'Social History', the patient states they 'smoke 1 pack per day x 10 years'. The medical assistant notes a discrepancy in the patient's medication list, where they listed 'no medications' during verbal intake. Which of the following inferences can be most reasonably drawn from this information?
- AThe patient is intentionally withholding information about their smoking habit.
- BThe patient may not consider OTC antihistamines to be 'medications'.
- CThe patient's 'PRN' antihistamine use indicates severe, chronic allergies.
- DThe patient's seasonal allergies are likely exacerbated by their smoking.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The patient may not consider OTC antihistamines to be 'medications'.
Many patients do not consider over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, or supplements as 'medications' when asked, leading to discrepancies like this. This is a common communication barrier in healthcare.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While possible, there's no direct evidence to suggest intentional withholding of smoking information; the discrepancy is about antihistamines, not smoking, and patients often downplay or forget OTCs.
- C. 'PRN' (as needed) use suggests intermittent or symptomatic use, not necessarily severe or chronic, and it doesn't explain why antihistamines weren't reported as 'medications'.
- D. Smoking can indeed worsen allergies, but the question asks for an inference about the *discrepancy* in medication reporting, not a clinical correlation of conditions.
Patient Information Discrepancies
Differences found between various sources of patient data, such as written forms, verbal reports, and medical records.
- Often unintentional, due to patient perception or recall.
- Can stem from misunderstanding medical terminology.
- Requires careful clarification by healthcare providers.
Memory trick: Discrepancy: Don't Assume Malice, Seek Clarity!