Unknown patient Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unknown patient

[ʌnˈnəʊn ˈpeɪʃənt ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

medical

A patient whose identity or medical history is not known or disclosed.

Synonyms

anonymous patient, unidentified patient.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unknown patient	Used when there is no information available about the patient. Typically found in medical records or hospital reports. The unknown patient was brought in by an ambulance last night. Doctors are trying to identify the unknown patient found unconscious in the park.
unidentified patient	Used when efforts are being made to identify the patient, often in emergency situations. The emergency room received an unidentified patient after the car accident. Hospital staff are trying to find information about the unidentified patient admitted this morning.
anonymous patient	Used when the identity of the patient is intentionally kept confidential, often to protect privacy or for ethical reasons. The study included data from anonymous patients to ensure privacy. An anonymous patient donated blood for the emergency procedure.

Word

Description / Examples

unknown patient

Used when there is no information available about the patient. Typically found in medical records or hospital reports.

The unknown patient was brought in by an ambulance last night.
Doctors are trying to identify the unknown patient found unconscious in the park.

unidentified patient

Used when efforts are being made to identify the patient, often in emergency situations.

The emergency room received an unidentified patient after the car accident.
Hospital staff are trying to find information about the unidentified patient admitted this morning.

anonymous patient

Used when the identity of the patient is intentionally kept confidential, often to protect privacy or for ethical reasons.

The study included data from anonymous patients to ensure privacy.
An anonymous patient donated blood for the emergency procedure.

Examples of usage

The hospital admitted an unknown patient found unconscious on the street.
The doctor treated the unknown patient with care and compassion.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medical Ethics

The concept often raises questions about patient rights and consent, as medical professionals must treat the patient without knowing their identity.
In emergencies, the principle of 'doing no harm' drives healthcare providers to give immediate care, even to those who can't identify themselves.

Legal Considerations

If a patient cannot be identified, hospitals may use a temporary identifier to keep track of their treatment and medical history.
Laws regarding patient confidentiality apply equally to known and unknown patients, ensuring privacy is maintained even without a name.

Emergency Response

Emergency rooms often have protocols for treating unknown patients quickly, relying on trained staff to assess the situation swiftly.
First responders might use specific questions to gauge the patient's potential medical needs, despite their unknown identity.

Psychological Impact

Being an unknown patient can cause feelings of anxiety and helplessness, both for the individual and their families, as they await information.
Research shows that a lack of identity can affect how patients perceive their care and the importance of having advocates or support systems.

Crisis Situations

Natural disasters often lead to situations where victims are treated as unknown patients until they can be identified.
Organizations like the Red Cross provide care and tracking solutions for individuals who cannot be identified in crises.

Origin of 'unknown patient'

The term 'unknown patient' is commonly used in medical settings to refer to a patient whose identity is not known or disclosed. This may occur in emergency situations where the patient is unable to provide information about themselves. Medical professionals prioritize providing care and treatment to all patients, regardless of their identity or background. The concept of treating unknown patients with respect and dignity is a fundamental principle in healthcare.