An elderly female has fallen and is very confused, and you are having a problem getting her past medical history. Which one of the following is your next best action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If the patient is unable to provide her past medical history, the next best step is to try and obtain the information from a family member or caregiver. The patient's daughter may have a better understanding of her medical conditions or medications. It is important to obtain past medical history to help the hospital staff make an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Transporting the patient without any medical information can be detrimental to her care. Contacting the patient's doctor may take too much time and delay necessary medical treatment. Transporting the patient to a hospital where she has been treated before may not necessarily provide a more accurate past medical history.

An Elderly Female Has Fallen and Is Very Confused, and You