However, when this is not available, the patient should be made aware that your reading is preliminary, that a radiologist will review the films, and that if there is any discrepancy, the patient will be contacted. This information should be on discharge instructions. Rapid notification of patients with missed fractures is important. Not only is there possible disability for the patient, but if there is a bad outcome or complication, any delay in treatment will be scrutinized by the patient's attorney. A record of patient notification should be made and this should become part of the medical record.
Discharge instructions are critical.
Every patient with an orthopedic injury should be referred to an orthopedist or their primary care physician for either definite follow-up or on a prn basis. Good discharge instructions should tell your patient how to care for the injury. If there is any indication that a patient may not be able to see an orthopedist in a timely fashion, call the orthopedist and arrange follow-up. Finally, be extra careful whenever alcohol is involved. If you had x-rays, the doctor looked at them in the Emergency Department.