Interdisciplinary Care Flashcards

A pregnant patient at 34 weeks presents with sudden severe headache, visual disturbances, and swelling of the face and hands. What should the acupuncturist do?

Answer: Refer immediately for obstetric evaluation

These signs suggest preeclampsia, which requires urgent obstetric assessment.

Which herb is of particular concern for patients taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) because of serotonin syndrome risk?

Answer: St. John's Wort

St. John's Wort has serotonergic activity and can contribute to serotonin syndrome when combined with SSRIs.

When working on an interdisciplinary team, what is the main purpose of a shared care plan?

Answer: To align goals, interventions, and responsibilities across providers

A shared care plan coordinates goals and roles so the team avoids duplication and gaps.

A patient with a history of DVT presents with unilateral calf swelling, warmth, and tenderness. Which action is correct?

Answer: Refer promptly for medical evaluation and avoid local manual therapy

Suspected deep vein thrombosis requires urgent medical evaluation, and local manipulation could dislodge a clot.

A physical therapist and acupuncturist co-treat a post-surgical knee patient. Which approach best supports interdisciplinary care?

Answer: Providers communicate on treatment timing, goals, and patient response

Regular communication about goals and responses keeps co-treatment safe and coherent.

Which of the following is generally outside the scope of practice for a licensed acupuncturist in most US states?

Answer: Prescribing controlled substances

Acupuncturists do not have authority to prescribe controlled substances.

A diabetic patient on insulin begins an herbal formula with blood sugar-lowering effects. What is the most important interdisciplinary step?

Answer: Advise glucose monitoring and inform the managing physician

Additive hypoglycemic effects call for close glucose monitoring and coordination with the prescriber.