We must ensure that a patient’s needs are met in an emergency situation. Appropriate evaluation and management of patients in emergency situations are dealt with to optimize the patient’s health and well-being. The medical office personnel will be trained in patient emergency procedures. It is recommended that all physicians and nurses maintain CPR certification. If emergency equipment is kept, it is also required that the equipment be kept current, complete, assessed, and documented on a regular basis.
When a potential medical emergency is recognized, do the following:
4. Notify the physician or nurse by calling for help. Two persons stay with the patient, if possible.
5. If possible, form a 3-4 member team with one person (usually the physician or RN) in charge giving directions.
6. All other staff continue patient services as usual and maintain a calm attitude.
7. The physician or nurse in charge conducts a physical assessment of the patient and carries out essential medical procedures with the assistance of other designated staff.
8. A medical assistant moves available emergency equipment and supplies to the patient care area.
9. If patient care needs are beyond the scope of the physician’s office, call 911. For more information, see Transfer of Patient to Ambulance.
10. Route urgent patient conditions, such as elevated fever or pain, to the physician or nurse. Review the patient’s record and assess the patient’s condition to determine:
•A need to see the physician and the timeframe recommended for the visit.
•A need for new medication or an adjustment to current medication.
•Immediate recommendations for patient’s next steps.
•The severity of the patient’s condition.
•The need for behavior modification, such as limitations on physical activity.
•The time interval for follow-up and next communication.