What should the MA do next?

Question

ACTION ONE
Give the patient a small sign of support and empathy by touching his shoulder.
ACTION TWO
Inform the patient that the physician should be back soon, and find out if there is anything the patient needs in the meantime.

Answer 1

ACTION ONE
Give the patient a small sign of support and empathy by touching his shoulder.
FOR THE PATIENT
The patient was diagnosed with stage 1 non-small cell lung cancer, and underwent surgery. Because the cancer had not yet spread, and the surgeon believes that he was able to remove the entire tumor, the prognosis for the patient was as good as can be expected for any lung cancer patient. The patient’s positive attitude is likely to be a factor in his favor.
FOR THE PRACTICE
The practice retained the patient, and the patient felt that he received excellent care from the clinic. This resulted in referrals that increased the clinic’s business.
FOR THE EMPLOYEE
The MA was congratulated for her adept handling of the patient’s question and her ability to keep the patient calm under difficult circumstances. This was reflected in her employee records and counted heavily in her favor when she sought advancement at the practice.