What it means
A phrase used in exam questions and on the job. A finding that "requires immediate follow-up" cannot wait: the nurse must look into it, act on it or report it now. A statement or action that "requires follow-up" is one that is wrong, unsafe or shows a client does not understand, so the nurse must step in or teach again.
For the nurse
On the exam, read the question to see which way it points. "Which finding requires immediate follow-up?" asks for the abnormal or dangerous finding. "Which statement by the client requires follow-up?" asks for the wrong or unsafe statement, not the correct one.
In a chart
"New confusion and a respiratory rate of 30 require immediate follow-up; the nurse notifies the provider."
At a glance
| Also written | requires immediate follow-up, requires follow-up, require follow-up |
|---|