American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Certification Practice Exam

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What is the main purpose of the pathology report?

  1. Document surgical procedures performed on patients.

  2. Detail the patient's health record over time.

  3. Provide findings from specimens examined by a pathologist.

  4. Summarize treatment responses post-surgery.

The correct answer is: Provide findings from specimens examined by a pathologist.

The main purpose of the pathology report is to provide findings from specimens examined by a pathologist. This document plays a critical role in the diagnostic process, as it contains detailed information about the nature of tissue or fluid samples collected during procedures such as biopsies or surgical resections. The pathologist assesses these specimens to determine whether there are any abnormalities, such as cancer, infections, or other pathological conditions, and the report conveys this essential information to the referring physician. This information is vital for guiding further patient management and treatment decisions. The clarity and specificity of the findings in the pathology report significantly impact the overall healthcare decision-making process surrounding diagnosis and treatment options.