What must be monitored for patients who have had a TIA or stroke?

Monitoring for disqualifying deficits is crucial for patients who have experienced a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke because these deficits can significantly impact a patient's ability to perform daily activities, including driving and other forms of transportation. A TIA or stroke often results in neurological deficits that can manifest as weaknesses, speech difficulties, coordination issues, or vision problems. These deficits must be assessed to determine a patient's medical fitness, especially in contexts such as commercial driving, where safety is paramount.

Identifying and addressing these deficits helps healthcare providers formulate effective rehabilitation strategies and provides information necessary for making decisions about patient care and return to activities. It also ensures that any potential risks associated with these deficits are managed appropriately, thereby safeguarding the patient's well-being and the safety of others.

Other factors like driving history, family medical history, and employment status may be relevant in a broader health context but are secondary when specifically assessing the immediate impact of TIA or stroke on a patient’s functional abilities. Hence, monitoring disqualifying deficits is the most pertinent choice in this scenario.