Which term refers to tests ordered by the physician based on the history and examination to determine the patient's condition?

• A. Diagnostic Testing
• B. Location
• C. Progress Notes
• D. Quality

Answer: (A)

Testing ordered after gathering the history and performing the exam is diagnostic testing. The physician uses these tests to obtain objective data that confirms or clarifies what the patient’s problem is, determines the condition, and guides treatment. It encompasses labs, imaging, and other studies chosen based on what the history and exam suggest. By contrast, location refers to where symptoms are felt, progress notes are the documentation of the visit, and quality describes the character of the symptoms in the history. So diagnostic testing best captures the idea of using targeted tests to determine the patient’s condition.