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visibility

Which of the following terms is used to describe the sound, timely, smooth, unfragmented and seamless transition of the client from one level of acuity to another?

  • A

    Case management

  • B

    Continuity of care

  • C

    Medical necessity

  • D

    Critical pathway

Correct Response: B

The continuity of care is defined as the sound, timely, smooth, unfragmented and seamless transition of a client from one area within the same healthcare facility, from one level of care to a higher and more intense level of care or to a less intense level of care based on the client’s status and level of acuity, from one healthcare facility to another healthcare facility and also any discharges to the home in the client’s community.

Case management and critical pathways may be used to facilitate the continuity of care, but they are not the sound, timely, smooth, unfragmented and seamless transition of the client from one level of acuity to another. Lastly, medical necessity is necessary for reimbursement and it is one of the considerations for moving the client from one level of acuity to another but medical necessity is not the continuity of care.