(4) Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) complaint (hearing problem, injuries, allergy,
sore throat, cough, cold, and so forth)--TD section.
(5)
Cardiorespiratory complaint (shortness of breath, chest pain, wheezing)-
TE section.
(6) Gastrointestinal complaint (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation,
abdominal or rectal pain, difficulty in swallowing, and so forth)--TF section.
(7) Genitourinary complaint (painful urination, blood in urine, testicular pain,
and so forth)--TG section.
(8) Gynecology (GYN) complaint (breast problems, vaginal discharge,
menstrual problems, possible pregnancy, and so forth)--TH section.
(9) Musculoskeletal complaint (back or neck pain, pain in arm or leg, muscle
ache, and so forth)--TI section.
(10) Dermatology complaint (skin rash, fever blisters, sexually-transmitted
diseases, corns on feet, frostbite, and so forth)--TJ section.
(11) Miscellaneous complaint (prescription refill, immunization shots, request
for nonprescription medication, prescription refill, and so forth)--TK section.
(12) Miscellaneous reason for return (not getting better, return requested by
health care provider)--TL section.
c. Select Appropriate Algorithm. Once the appropriate section has been
selected, determine which algorithm within the section should be used based upon the
patient's condition and complaints.
d. Follow Instructions Given in Algorithm.
(1) Each algorithm indicates which vital signs (TPR and blood pressure) are
to be taken. In order to save time, take only those vital signs indicated.
(2) Sometimes, a list of associated complaints is also given. If any
associated complaint is in boldface or has an asterisk (*) by the complaint, ask the
patient if he has any of the associated complaints. If the patient has an associated
complaint that is in boldface or has an asterisk, screen the patient using the algorithm
for the associated complaint. The boldfaced or asterisked complaint is more significant
than the patient's original complaint.
(3) Each algorithm has a flow chart giving yes/no type questions. Answer
the question and follow the appropriate arrow to the next step in the decision path.
MD0920
5-9