Question

A laboratory fails to fax results to a doctor’s office after a test is performed. What are the possible consequences of this? Check all that apply.

misdiagnosis

ordering unnecessary tests

conclusive diagnosis of a patient

prescription of incorrect treatment

death

Answer 1

Check all that apply except "conclusive diagnosis of a patient."

- Misdiagnosis — Yes. Missing lab data can lead to wrong conclusions about a patient’s condition.
- Ordering unnecessary tests — Yes. Clinicians may repeat tests or order alternatives because results weren’t received.
- Prescription of incorrect treatment — Yes. Without results, treatment decisions can be wrong or inappropriate.
- Death — Yes. In critical cases, failure to communicate abnormal results can contribute to severe harm or death.

"Conclusive diagnosis of a patient" does not apply, because lack of the lab result prevents reaching a definitive, evidence-based diagnosis.