A patient comes to the clinic and is worried about developing a neurological condition seen in the patient's mother and aunt.The best action by the nurse is to:
A) conduct a thorough neurological examination on the patient.
B) develop a multigenerational family health history (pedigree).
C) have the patient voice these concerns to the physician.
D) refer the patient to a genetic counselor immediately.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should work with the patient to develop a multigenerational family health history, known as a family pedigree, so that the patient can present this information to the physician and have a better understanding of how this neurological disorder has impacted the patient's family.Because the patient is not complaining of any neurological symptoms, conducting a thorough neurological examination would not be the best action by the nurse.Although the patient should voice his or her concerns to the physician, the nurse needs to be more proactive and intervene with the patient independently.This patient may or may not need referral to a genetic counselor; more information is needed before making that decision.

A Patient Comes to the Clinic and Is Worried About