Which of the following is not an acceptable patient identifier?

The correct answer is that a hospital room number is not an acceptable patient identifier. This is primarily because a room number can change and is not unique to a patient. It is possible for multiple patients to share the same room number over time or even at the same time in different hospitals, which could lead to confusion or errors in patient identification.

In contrast, acceptable patient identifiers like a patient's name, telephone number, and social security number are more stable and unique. A name often serves as the primary identifier for a patient, while the telephone number provides a secondary means of contact and verification. The social security number is another unique identifier, although its use is becoming less common due to privacy concerns. These identifiers are less likely to change and are more effective for accurately identifying a specific patient, ensuring proper communication and continuity of care.