Question

Start every callback to the patient by identifying yourself, and then ask to speak to the patient. You should NOT indicate _____ you are calling until you have the patient on the telephone line.

Answer 1

When calling a patient, identify yourself first and confirm the patient's identity without revealing the purpose of the call for privacy reasons.

Asking the patient to state their name not only verifies their identity but also assesses their cognitive state.

Step-by-step explanation:

When starting a callback with a patient, it is important to first identify yourself. Before discussing the reason for the call or divulging any sensitive information, it is crucial to confirm you are speaking to the correct individual.

You should NOT indicate why you are calling until you have the patient on the telephone line. This precaution ensures the privacy and security of patient information as per healthcare regulations.

Verifying a patient's identity by asking them to state their name serves multiple purposes. It not only confirms that you have the right patient record but also gives an indication of the patient's cognitive state.

For instance, a response that is incongruent with reality, like stating their name as "Santa Claus," can signal a disconnect with actuality.

Similarly, a confused or blank reaction may point to difficulties in understanding or producing speech, indicating potential medical concerns that warrant further evaluation.

When calling a patient, identify yourself first and confirm the patient's identity without revealing the purpose of the call for privacy reasons.

Asking the patient to state their name not only verifies their identity but also assesses their cognitive state.