What is the appropriate action if a nurse practitioner cannot reach a patient to discuss normal lab results?

When a nurse practitioner (NP) cannot reach a patient to discuss normal lab results, leaving a message with their name and number, instructing the patient to call back, is an appropriate action. This approach maintains the patient's confidentiality and respects their privacy. It allows the NP to communicate necessary information without disclosing sensitive health information via voicemail, which could be accessed by unintended recipients.

By encouraging the patient to return the call, the NP enables a more secure communication channel where they can clarify any questions or concerns the patient may have about their health or the implications of the lab results. It fosters a more personal interaction, which is important for building trust and ensuring the patient is fully informed about their health status.

While leaving lab results on an answering machine could provide the patient with timely information, it poses a significant risk to confidentiality since voicemail messages may be accessible by others. Not calling back at all dismisses the responsibility of the healthcare provider to ensure that the patient receives important information about their health. Consulting with a physician before discussing lab results might create unnecessary delays, especially when the results are normal and the patient generally expects to hear from the NP. Thus, the best practice involves direct, respectful communication that prioritizes the patient's right to privacy and the need for clarity