Nokea
A patient is admitted with pneumonia. My case manager refers to a plan of care that specifically identifies dates when supplemental oxygen should be discontinued, positive pressure ventilation with bronchodilators should be changed to self-administer inhalers, and antibiotics should be changed from intravenous to oral treatment, based on assessment findings. This plan of care is referred to by what term?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: clinical pathway. A clinical pathway is a detailed plan of care that outlines specific interventions and timelines based on assessment findings. In this scenario, the plan includes specific dates for discontinuing supplemental oxygen, changing ventilation methods, and transitioning antibiotics. This structured approach ensures consistent and efficient care delivery.
A: Patient classification system categorizes patients based on their clinical needs, not specific care plans.
B: Patient-centered plan of care focuses on individual preferences and goals, not necessarily specific interventions and timelines.
C: Diagnosis-related group is a classification system for reimbursement based on diagnoses, not specific care plans.
In summary, the other choices are incorrect because they do not accurately describe a detailed plan of care with specific interventions and timelines like a clinical pathway does.