Communication & Stakeholder Relations Flashcards

A patient becomes agitated during the night and refuses to continue the sleep study. What is the most appropriate first response by the RPSGT?

Answer: Calmly explain the importance of the study and address the patient's concerns

The technologist should first attempt de-escalation by listening to and addressing the patient's concerns before taking further action.

Which of the following best describes the RPSGT's role when communicating sleep study results to a patient?

Answer: Inform the patient that results will be reviewed and communicated by the ordering physician

RPSGTs are not licensed to diagnose; results must be communicated to patients by the interpreting physician.

A parent of a pediatric patient asks to stay in the room during the entire sleep study. How should the RPSGT respond?

Answer: Allow the parent to stay and ensure their presence is documented

Allowing a parent to stay with a pediatric patient is standard practice and should be documented in the record.

During a CPAP titration, the patient reports that the mask pressure feels uncomfortable. What is the RPSGT's best course of action?

Answer: Assess the fit, try alternative mask styles, and document adjustments made

Optimizing mask comfort improves adherence and study validity; adjustments should be tried and documented.

Which communication method is most appropriate when handing off patient care at the end of a shift?

Answer: A written handoff report covering patient status, events, and pending tasks

A structured written handoff ensures continuity of care and reduces the risk of missed critical information.

A referring physician calls the sleep lab asking for a verbal summary of a patient's study results before the formal report is signed. What should the RPSGT do?

Answer: Explain that results cannot be released until the interpreting physician signs the report

Releasing results before the interpreting physician signs the report violates proper reporting protocols.

A patient with limited English proficiency arrives for a polysomnography study. What is the RPSGT's best approach to obtaining informed consent?

Answer: Use a certified medical interpreter or translated consent form to ensure understanding

Informed consent requires that the patient fully understand the procedure, which necessitates a certified interpreter or translated materials.