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 'no known allergies' but then lists 'rash from penicillin' under previous medication reactions. What is the most appropriate initial action for the medical assistant?
- ARefer the patient directly to a pharmacist for allergy counseling.
- BAsk the patient for clarification regarding the penicillin reaction.
- CIgnore the discrepancy as the patient already stated 'no known allergies'.
- DUpdate the allergy section to 'Penicillin Allergy'.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Ask the patient for clarification regarding the penicillin reaction.
A discrepancy in patient information, especially regarding allergies, requires immediate clarification. The patient might not consider a rash an 'allergy' in the medical sense, or they may have misunderstood the question. Direct questioning is essential to ensure patient safety.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While a pharmacist can provide counseling, the initial step is for the medical assistant to clarify the information directly with the patient first.
- C. Ignoring a potential allergy is a significant patient safety risk.
- D. While likely correct, updating without clarification could misinterpret the patient's experience (e.g., side effect vs. true allergy).
Resolving Patient Information Discrepancies
The process of identifying and clarifying inconsistencies in a patient's reported health information to ensure accuracy and patient safety.
- Crucial for medication safety and care planning.
- Always prioritize patient clarification first.
- Avoid making assumptions or ignoring discrepancies.
Memory trick: DISCREPANCIES mean CLARIFICATION is the FIRST RESPONSE.