Ambulatory Care Nurse Certification 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A brief account by the patient of any signs or symptoms they are experiencing is referred to as a review of systems. This process involves systematically asking the patient about different organ systems to identify any symptoms or issues that may not have been directly mentioned during the main reason for their visit. The goal is to gather comprehensive information about the patient's overall health and any potential underlying conditions.

The review of systems helps healthcare professionals to create a more complete clinical picture, guiding further diagnostic assessments or interventions that may be required. It is essential for understanding how various symptoms may relate to one another and how they fit into the overall health profile of the patient.

The other options refer to different types of evaluations: a functional assessment focuses on a patient’s ability to perform daily activities, a focused assessment targets specific issues based on the patient's presenting complaints, and a systemic review is typically not a standard term used in clinical practice. Understanding these distinctions is critical for effectively conducting patient assessments and ensuring comprehensive care.