What might a medical assistant do to help minimize a patient's anxiety before a procedure?

Offering reassurance and explaining the process step by step is an effective way to help minimize a patient's anxiety before a procedure. When patients understand what to expect, they often feel more in control and can alleviate fears associated with the unknown. Providing detailed explanations can help demystify the procedure, allowing them to visualize each step, which can reduce feelings of fear and apprehension. This approach fosters trust between the medical assistant and the patient, leading to a more positive healthcare experience.

Engaging with the patient and addressing their concerns demonstrates empathy and care, essential components of patient-centered care. In contrast, instructing the patient to stay silent, offering no explanation, or encouraging distractions can lead to increased anxiety, as these actions may leave the patient feeling unsupported and confused about what will happen, thereby exacerbating their fears.