How could the patient feel if he or she is not to be seen?
-
The patient may become upset that they are not seen and they may verbally
express their anger or physically express it. They may blame the facility for
discrimination because of they way they look.
What body language will indicate that the medical assistant cares?
-
Direct eye contact with the patient, be concerned for the patient’s wellbeing,
smile, and offer any and all help. The patient came to the facility for help, not to
be belittled and treated like they are wasting time.
Why is observation an important component of communication?
-
You never know what someone is going through. You may not see certain things
if you focus on assumptions. Make sure you ask every and any question you can
think of to help the patient. If you see any silent ques from the patient and it
lights up as a red flag for abuse or something bad, bring it up to the provider. If
you don't ask more questions, you may no see these ques and the patient could
go back into an unsafe environment. You are your patient’s advocate.
