Question

If a patient is admitted for surgery, The Joint Commission requires that a history and physical be available for review in the patient's medical record:

a. No more than 30 days prior to surgery, or within 24 hours after admission, but, prior to the surgery.
b. No more than 30 days after surgery, or within 24 hours after admission, but, prior to the surgery.
c. Within 7 days after the surgery.
d. Within 30 days after the surgery.

Answer 1

The Joint Commission requires a history and physical to be in the patient's medical record no more than 30 days before surgery or within 24 hours after admission but before the surgery itself. This is to ensure a complete understanding of the patient's health status.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient is admitted for surgery, The Joint Commission stipulates that a history and physical must be documented in the patient's medical record. This must be done no more than 30 days prior to surgery or within 24 hours after admission but prior to surgery. This requirement ensures that the medical team has a comprehensive understanding of the patient's health status before proceeding with the operation, aiding in the reduction of risks and complications during and after the surgical procedure. In addition to the history and physical, the medical team will also confirm that prophylactic antibiotics (if indicated) are administered within a time frame that maximizes their effectiveness in preventing post-surgical infections.