Texas Jurisprudence Exam Physician Assistant Practice Exam

What is required from the alternate physician regarding the protocols in use for supervision?

1. To update them weekly

2. To be familiar with them and document accountability

3. To create new protocols for the physician assistant

4. To personally perform all required procedures

The correct answer is: To be familiar with them and document accountability

The requirement for the alternate physician to be familiar with the protocols in use for supervision and to document accountability emphasizes the importance of effective oversight and collaboration in the physician-physician assistant relationship. Being familiar with the protocols ensures that the alternate physician understands the scope of practice and the specific responsibilities that the physician assistant has. This familiarity allows for better assessment and guidance during patient care, which is critical for maintaining quality and safety in healthcare delivery. Documenting accountability is also crucial; it creates a record of the alternate physician's awareness of the protocols and their responsibility in overseeing the physician assistant's practice. This documentation can serve as an important reference in the event of audits or legal scrutiny, demonstrating that proper supervision and adherence to established protocols are in place. The other options, while they may seem plausible, do not align with the intent and requirements for alternate physicians supervising physician assistants effectively. Regular updates or creating new protocols would not necessarily be part of their primary responsibilities in this context, and personal performance of all required procedures would not be practical nor aligned with the supervisory role, which is designed to foster the PA's independent practice within the established protocols.