Why getting the diagnosis right is the basis for optimal management
Posted on: 1 Mar 2018This document was originally published in Spring 2017.
Early and accurate respiratory diagnosis is the basic building block of good care. It requires a structured, systematic approach that combines objective evidence/tests and clinical judgement. Clearly, misdiagnosis is a safety issue that puts the patient at great risk.
The Respiratory Academy has published top tips for making a timely and accurate diagnosis.
Here, in his article entitled ‘Early and accurate respiratory diagnosis: a patient safety issue needing more serious attention’, Noel Baxter, PCRS-UK Executive Chair, makes the point that clinicians need to be explicit about what they need to achieve confidence in making an early and accurate diagnosis.