põhidiagnoos

Põhidiagnoos, meaning primary diagnosis in Estonian, refers to the main illness or condition identified by a healthcare professional that is the reason for a patient's admission to a hospital or for a specific medical consultation. It is the most significant health problem that requires attention and treatment. When a patient presents with multiple health issues, the põhidiagnoos is the one deemed most critical or the underlying cause of other related conditions.

The determination of a põhidiagnoos involves a comprehensive evaluation, including patient history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. This diagnosis guides the subsequent treatment plan, dictating the choice of medications, therapies, and surgical interventions. In medical records, the põhidiagnoos is typically listed first and is crucial for billing, statistical purposes, and communicating the patient's primary health concern among healthcare providers.

Accurate identification of the põhidiagnoos is vital for effective healthcare management. Misdiagnosis can lead to delayed or inappropriate treatment, potentially worsening the patient's condition. Therefore, diagnostic procedures are often rigorous and may involve consultations with specialists. The põhidiagnoos may evolve as more information becomes available during the course of treatment, but it serves as the initial and central focus of medical care.