PA 34 Flashcards
YOU ARE LEAVING FOR THE DAY AND REALIZE YOU GAVE A PATIENT MEDICATION THEY ARE ALLERGIC TO. WHAT DO YOU DO?
If I realized I gave a patient a medication they are allergic to, I would not leave until I made sure someone knew about it and the patient was safe. First, I would check on the patient or contact a nurse or another provider right away to watch for any reaction. Then I would let my supervising physician or the charge nurse know what happened so we could fix the situation. I would also talk to the patient, if they are able to understand, explain the mistake, and apologize. Finally, I would document the incident in the patient’s chart and follow my workplace’s guidelines for reporting errors.
When is honesty not the best policy?
Most of the time, honesty is the best policy in health care. Patients deserve to know what is going on with their treatment. However, there are rare cases called “therapeutic privilege,” where a provider might hold back certain information if sharing it could cause serious harm to the patient’s mental or physical health. This does not apply to errors in care, though. In cases like a medication mistake, being open and honest is crucial to maintain trust and protect the patient’s well-being.
YOU ARE A PA AND YOU PRESCRIBED BIRTH CONTROL PILLS FOR A 13-YEAR-OLD. THE PATIENT’S MOTHER IS ANGRY ABOUT THIS DECISION. WHAT DO YOU SAY?
I understand that you are upset, and I know this is a sensitive issue. Depending on the laws where we live, minors may have the right to access certain reproductive health services, including birth control. I prescribed these pills because I want to keep your daughter safe and healthy, and I followed standard medical guidelines for her specific situation. I encourage you to talk openly with your daughter, and I’m happy to set up a time for all of us to discuss any questions you may have. My main goal is to respect your daughter’s privacy while making sure she receives the care she needs.
IF YOU COULD DO ANYTHING ELSE AND KNOW YOU WOULD BE SUCCESSFUL, WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
If I could do anything else and be sure I’d succeed, I would open a community health center in a rural area. I love the idea of bringing medical care to places that don’t have enough resources. I would focus on preventive care, education, and helping people feel supported right where they live. This way, I could still use my passion for helping others, but in a setting that removes barriers for those who need it most.
What are you well known for?
People who know me often say I’m known for staying calm and supportive in challenging situations. I like to bring a positive outlook and problem-solving mindset wherever I go. I also pride myself on being a good listener and a reliable team player. Whether at work or in my personal life, I try to show kindness, empathy, and a willingness to help when someone needs it.
