6. STANDARD LABORATORY TESTS FOR CERTAIN ACUTE ILLNESSES IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT
A. Clinical studies and medical literature reveal laboratory tests are not immediately required on patients presenting with certain acute injuries or illness. The following tests are not routinely indicated in patients with a reliable history and physical exam:
(1) throat cultures/strep screens in pharyngitis; and,
(2) urine cultures, in symptomatic females of child bearing age without fever, flank pain, or history of current pregnancy or recent UTI.
B. Discharge Instructions: When the emergency medical care provider determines that a patient may be discharged, written instructions must be documented on the emergency department medical record and signed by the patient. The instructions should include all of the following, as appropriate:
(1) specific advice regarding recommended treatment and/or medications relating to the patient's clinical problem;
(2) information about follow-up, if needed, which includes the name of an appropriate physician and/or clinic and a suggested time period in which the patient should be seen; and,
(3) instructions to call or return to the Emergency Department if symptoms progress/persist or if the patient encounters difficulty in implementing the suggested follow-up plans.
EFFECTIVE DATE: June 28, 1991
AMENDED: February 22, 1995
02 DEPARTMENT OF PROFESSIONAL AND FINANCIAL REGULATION
373- BOARD OF LICENSURE IN MEDICINE
