If a patient walks out during a medical screening examination and treatment without informing staff, what is the correct follow-up action for the Emergency Department nurse or physician?

The appropriate follow-up action for the Emergency Department nurse or physician when a patient leaves during a medical screening examination and treatment without informing staff is to document the incident in the medical record.

Documenting the incident is crucial for several reasons. It creates an official record of the patient's decision to leave, which can help protect the healthcare provider and facility from potential legal issues related to abandonment or failure to provide care. Documentation also provides continuity of care for any future interactions with the patient, ensuring that anyone reviewing the medical records is informed about the circumstances of the patient's departure. This documentation should include the time of the patient's departure, any information provided to the patient prior to leaving, and any pertinent observations that were made during their visit.

In cases where a patient has left without notifying staff, it is essential for the healthcare provider to assess the situation and consider the patient's safety. However, the focus should be on accurate documentation rather than attempting to contact family or law enforcement unless there are immediate safety concerns or specific protocols indicating such action is necessary.

Effective communication is important in healthcare settings, and thorough documentation can provide clarity and assist in adhering to compliance standards.