Questions: Dorothy is a patient who comes in regularly for PT/INR testing. On a hot summer day, MA Austen can see that Dorothy has very swollen hands and feet. Austen is concerned that edema will interfere with the test results. She asks Dorothy to please wait a moment while she speaks to the provider. Was this a good decision? Why or why not?

Dorothy is a patient who comes in regularly for PT/INR testing. On a hot summer day, MA Austen can see that Dorothy has very swollen hands and feet. Austen is concerned that edema will interfere with the test results. She asks Dorothy to please wait a moment while she speaks to the provider. Was this a good decision? Why or why not?
Transcript text: Dorothy is a patient who comes in regularly for PT/INR testing. On a hot summer day, MA Austen can see that Dorothy has very swollen hands and feet. Austen is concerned that edema will interfere with the test results. She asks Dorothy to please wait a moment while she speaks to the provider. Was this a good decision? Why or why not?
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Solution

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Answer

The decision made by MA Austen to consult with the provider before proceeding with the PT/INR test for Dorothy, who has swollen hands and feet, was a good decision.

Explanation

Swelling or edema can potentially affect the accuracy of blood test results, including PT/INR tests, which are used to measure how long it takes blood to clot and to monitor patients on anticoagulant therapy. Here are some reasons why consulting with the provider was appropriate:

  1. Impact on Test Results: Edema can dilute the blood sample, leading to inaccurate test results. This is particularly important for PT/INR tests, where precise measurements are crucial for managing anticoagulant therapy.

  2. Patient Safety: Consulting with the provider ensures that any underlying issues causing the edema are addressed, which could be important for the patient's overall health and safety.

  3. Professional Protocol: It is a standard practice in healthcare to consult with a provider when there are concerns about a patient's condition that could affect diagnostic tests or treatment plans.

  4. Alternative Testing Sites: The provider might suggest an alternative site for blood collection or additional tests to better understand the cause of the swelling.

By consulting with the provider, MA Austen is ensuring that Dorothy receives the most accurate and safe care possible.

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