Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

What must be available at the time of a patient’s admission if they have been previously examined?

1. Medication list

2. Copy of the examination

3. Patient’s health history

4. Signed consent form

The correct answer is: Copy of the examination

At the time of a patient's admission, having a copy of the examination is critical, especially if the patient has been previously examined. This document provides essential information about the patient's current medical status, concerns identified during the examination, and any recommendations for treatment or care. It serves as a foundational reference that aids the healthcare team in understanding the patient's needs immediately upon arrival, ensuring continuity of care and enabling appropriate planning and interventions. While a medication list can be helpful in managing the patient's pharmacological needs, and the patient's health history provides important context regarding their overall health and prior treatments, the actual examination details are paramount as they reflect the most recent assessment of the patient's condition. Additionally, a signed consent form is vital for obtaining permission for treatments or procedures, but it does not directly inform the clinical team's understanding of the patient's immediate medical needs as effectively as the examination copy does.