Solved

A 43-Year-Old Woman Comes to the Office for an Initial

question 18

Multiple Choice

A 43-year-old woman comes to the office for an initial appointment due to ongoing abdominal pain, general weakness, decreased appetite, and dizziness. She says the pain is ruining her life and is worried that her previous physicians may have missed something. Over the past several years, the patient has been hospitalized 3 times with similar symptoms. No etiology for the pain has been identified despite extensive workups, including several abdominal CT scans and an exploratory laparotomy. The patient describes chronic abdominal pain since adolescence and is concerned as the nonprescription analgesics she takes are ineffective. She has no history of psychiatric diagnoses or substance abuse. Physical examination, vital signs, and laboratory tests (including chemistry panel, complete blood count, and urinalysis) are within normal limits. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

Definitions:

Dating

The social activity of engaging in planned meetings or outings with individuals to assess mutual compatibility as potential partners.

HIPAA Requirements

The set of regulations established by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act that protects patients' medical records and other health information provided to health plans, doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers.

Patient Consent

The informed agreement by a patient to undergo a specific medical intervention, after understanding the risks, benefits, and alternatives.

Protected Information

Data that is legally guarded due to its sensitive nature, including personal, medical, or financial details.