Page 30 - Diagnostic Radiology - Interpreting the Risks Part Two_Neat

SVMIC Diagnostic Radiology: Interpreting the Risks

if not acted on, may worsen over time and possibly

result in an adverse patient outcome.

• Implement a system to communicate the results of

amended reports.

• Implement a system to communicate abnormal findings
when the patient has been discharged prior to receiving

results and has no PCP.

• Be aware that you are responsible for the content of the

reports you sign for colleagues.

• Provide clear and understandable pre-procedure

instructions.

• Engage in a full and clear discussion with patients
regarding pre-sedation about the nature of their medical
condition, the recommended treatment plan, and the risks,

benefits, alternatives, and expected outcome. Doing so not

only discharges your legal and ethical obligation to provide
patients with sufficient information with which to make
an educated election about the course of their medical

care, but may also help create realistic expectations on the

patients’ part as to the outcome of treatment. Be careful
not to educate above a patient’s level of compensation and
be certain these discussions are documented in the record.

• Provide clear, detailed, understandable, and procedure-

specific written discharge instructions with contact
information, and encourage patients to call if they

experience problems post-procedure. Patients who have a
clear understanding of what signs and symptoms to watch

for, how medication should be administered, and when to
make follow-up appointments are less likely to experience

a complication or present to the emergency room.

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