Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What method is suggested to support primary care providers regarding patient care needs outside their competency level?

1. Regular visits by a mental health care worker to provide consultations

2. Increased training for primary care staff

3. Referral to specialists only

4. Telemedicine consultations exclusively

The correct answer is: Regular visits by a mental health care worker to provide consultations

Supporting primary care providers with patient care needs that exceed their competency is best achieved through regular visits by a mental health care worker to provide consultations. This method offers direct access to expertise in areas where the primary care provider may lack specialized knowledge, allowing for collaborative care that enhances patient outcomes. Having a mental health care worker available for consultations ensures that primary care providers can discuss specific patient cases, get guidance on treatment options, and address complex mental health concerns efficiently. This approach promotes an integrated model of care, enabling primary care providers to continue managing their patients effectively while ensuring that those patients receive the specialized support they may require. Other methods, such as increased training for primary care staff, can enhance knowledge and skills over time but may not provide immediate support for urgent or complex cases. Referring to specialists only can lead to delays in patient care and may not foster the collaborative environment needed to manage ongoing mental health issues effectively. Relying solely on telemedicine consultations might limit the face-to-face interaction that can be essential in building rapport and understanding specific patient contexts. Thus, the regular presence of a mental health care worker facilitates timely and collaborative care without imposing limitations associated with other methods.