| If an individual fails to recover within the expected maximum duration period, the reader may wish to consider the following questions to better understand the specifics of an individual's medical case. Regarding diagnosis:
- Was pathogen inhaled or ingested? Did it penetrate the skin or mucous membrane or move from one part of the body to another?
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Was an insect vector or animal carrier involved? Was the water supply contaminated?
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Has individual recently had an injury or surgery?
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Is individual immunocompromised?
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Where is individual's infection? What symptoms does individual have?
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On exam, is the area tender to palpation? Is the area warm?
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Was the exam normal?
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Has individual had a CBC, with differential and erythrocyte sedimentation rate? Have a culture and sensitivity of the affected area been done?
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Depending on the location of the infection, has a chest x-ray been done? Ultrasound? Other x-rays? CT or MRI? Spinal tap?
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Have conditions with similar symptoms been ruled out?
Regarding treatment:
- Has individual received rest, fluids, analgesics, and antipyretics, as needed?
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Is infection bacterial? Has individual been treated with the appropriate antibiotic?
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Is infection viral? Has individual received appropriate treatment?
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Is infection fungal? Has individual been treated with the appropriate antifungal medication?
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Were comorbidities appropriately managed?
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Were preventive techniques instituted to diminish likelihood of spread of the infection?
Regarding prognosis:
- Can individual's employer accommodate any necessary restrictions?
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Does individual have any conditions that may affect ability to recover?
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Have any complications occurred, such as necrosis, sepsis, or bacteremia, that may affect recovery?
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Source: Medical Disability Advisor