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Ethics & Law · single question

You suspect a patient may be exhibiting drug-seeking behavior. Which pattern of behaviors is most consistent with this concern?

  1. Calling repeatedly after hours for refills, insisting on a specific medication/dose by name, and resisting referral for further evaluation of the reported pain
  2. Showing up exactly on time for every scheduled appointment
  3. Requesting a written treatment plan before starting care
  4. Asking detailed questions about a procedure before consenting
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Calling repeatedly after hours for refills, insisting on a specific medication/dose by name, and resisting referral for further evaluation of the reported pain

Classic drug-seeking red flags include after-hours calls requesting refills, insistence on a specific named medication/dose, resistance to alternative pain management approaches or further diagnostic workup, and reporting lost/stolen prescriptions repeatedly. None of the other listed behaviors (punctuality, requesting a written plan, asking informed questions) are concerning on their own — informed, engaged patients commonly do these things.

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