NAHQ CPHQ Practice Exam

The primary purpose of clinical pathways and guidelines is to

1. improve patient satisfaction.

2. minimize variation in patient care.

3. reduce length of stay.

4. identify errors in patient care.

The correct answer is: minimize variation in patient care.

Clinical pathways and guidelines are designed to minimize variation in patient care by providing a standardized approach to the management of specific diseases or conditions. By following these pathways and guidelines, healthcare professionals can ensure that patients receive consistent, evidence-based care that is aligned with best practices. This standardization not only helps improve the quality of care and patient outcomes but also promotes efficiency and cost-effectiveness in healthcare delivery. Therefore, option B is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the primary purpose of clinical pathways and guidelines. Patient satisfaction (option A) is important but not the primary purpose of clinical pathways and guidelines. While reducing length of stay (option C) and identifying errors in patient care (option D) may be outcomes of utilizing clinical pathways and guidelines, the main goal is to standardize care to minimize variation.