What should you do if a caller not in your patient records reports submandibular swelling?

When a caller reports symptoms such as submandibular swelling, it is important to prioritize patient safety and health. This condition may indicate an underlying issue that could involve infection or other serious health risks, which requires timely medical intervention. Referring the patient to a hospital or urgent care ensures that they receive an appropriate evaluation by medical professionals who can provide immediate care.

Medical emergencies or concerns should not be handled through phone consultations, as doing so may result in misdiagnosis or inadequate treatment. While some other options may seem less urgent, they do not address the potential severity of the symptoms appropriately. For example, asking the patient to wait for an appointment does not consider the possibly urgent nature of the situation, diagnosing over the phone without proper examination could lead to inadequate care, and suggesting home remedies may delay necessary medical treatment.

By directing the caller to a hospital or urgent care, you are ensuring that they receive comprehensive and professional care without risking complications that could arise from delaying treatment or inappropriate advice.