Final answer:
A 'still patient' is someone continuing treatment without symptoms returning, and 'outpatient' refers to someone not currently hospitalized but receiving medical care. Kerry exemplifies a still patient managing a chronic condition, whereas John, after recovering from an infection, may need outpatient services for lingering symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
When referring to someone as a 'still patient,' it implies that the person is continuing treatment without the symptoms having returned. This can be seen in the case of Kerry, who, after following her treatment plan for six months, remained symptom-free but is aware that future flare-ups are likely. As such, Kerry represents a patient who is expected to manage her condition proactively, continuing her treatment indefinitely and requiring medical attention as new symptoms arise. This is a classic example of a patient who is not currently hospitalized but is engaged in ongoing management of a chronic condition, classifying her as an outpatient.
In contrast, a patient like John, who recovered from an infection after rest at home and then returned to work, also experienced longer-term effects such as lethargy and joint pain. While John's immediate infection was resolved, his continued symptoms could necessitate further outpatient services.
Furthermore, the patient who remained in bed for years and suffered from lack of care highlights a severe case of patient neglect, which would necessitate intensive medical and perhaps psychiatric outpatient or inpatient services upon re-engagement with the healthcare system.