American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Certification Practice Exam

According to Joint Commission standards, how soon must a physical examination be completed after patient admission?

1. Within 24 hours of admission.

2. Within 48 hours of admission.

3. Within 72 hours of admission.

4. Within 12 hours of admission.

The correct answer is: Within 24 hours of admission.

The correct answer is that a physical examination must be completed within 24 hours of patient admission according to Joint Commission standards. This standard is in place to ensure timely assessment of the patient's health status, which is crucial for developing an appropriate care plan and addressing any immediate medical needs. The focus is on early identification of health issues that may require prompt intervention, allowing healthcare providers to facilitate necessary treatments without delay. By requiring this examination within a 24-hour window, the Joint Commission emphasizes the importance of early patient evaluation to enhance safety and quality of care. This timeframe aligns with the need for hospitals and healthcare facilities to monitor their patients continuously and respond quickly to any changes in their condition. In contrast, the other timeframes—48 hours, 72 hours, and 12 hours—do not align with the established Joint Commission requirements, highlighting that it is critical for healthcare facilities to adhere to these standards to ensure optimal patient outcomes.