Final answer:
A medical assistant should provide a mask, direct the patient to a separate area, and notify the healthcare provider when a coughing and sneezing patient enters the clinic.
Step-by-step explanation:
A medical assistant should take the following actions when a patient who is coughing and sneezing repetitively enters the reception area at the clinic:
- The medical assistant should provide the patient with a surgical mask to wear.
- They should direct the patient to a separate waiting area or room to minimize exposure to other patients.
- The medical assistant should notify the healthcare provider about the patient's symptoms and recommend following protocols for infectious diseases.