Final answer:
A comprehensive history is most appropriate for a new patient or one with a complex or multi-systemic complaint, as it provides a full understanding of their health status and potential underlying issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
For which of the following patients would a comprehensive history be most appropriate? The most suitable scenario for a comprehensive history is for a new patient or a patient with a complex or multi-system issue.
While established patients with simple, specific complaints may only require a problem-focused or extended history, new patients typically necessitate a comprehensive evaluation to ensure that the healthcare provider has a full understanding of their health status and potential underlying problems.
For example, if a new patient presents with a chief complaint that could be a symptom of a more complex condition, like incidental chest pain or shortness of breath, then a comprehensive history would be critically important to gather complete information on past medical history, family history, social history, and review of systems to inform a thorough differential diagnosis and management plan.
Complete Question:
1. For which of the following patients would a comprehensive health history be appropriate?
A) A new patient with the chief complaint of "I sprained my ankle"
B) An established patient with the chief complaint of "I have an upper respiratory infection"
C) A new patient with the chief complaint of "I am here to establish care"
D) A new patient with the chief complaint of "I cut my hand"