What is the proper procedure for handling incoming patient test results to ensure proper tracking?

• A. Date stamp and route to the provider
• B. File away immediately
• C. Email to the patient
• D. Post on bulletin board

Answer: (A)

The key idea is creating a reliable, trackable process so test results are reviewed by the right clinician promptly and kept in the patient’s record. Date stamping the incoming results provides an exact record of when the result was received, which helps with timely follow-up and accountability. Routing the results to the provider who ordered the test ensures the clinician who understands the context and can interpret the findings sees them and can take appropriate action, documenting any decisions in the patient’s chart.

Filing away results immediately could lead to delays or loss of information. Emailing results to the patient without clinician interpretation can raise privacy concerns and may leave the patient without necessary guidance. Posting results publicly or on a bulletin board is inappropriate and violates confidentiality.