Final answer:
To show active listening, a dental assistant should engage with a patient discussing their dental history by nodding, making eye contact, reading body language, asking clarifying questions, reflecting on what the patient says, and avoiding premature judgments to make the patient feel understood and build trust.
Step-by-step explanation:
An appropriate way to show active listening when a patient is discussing their dental history with a dental assistant is through various interactive and receptive techniques that reflect engagement and understanding. For instance, the dental assistant can demonstrate active listening by:
- Nodding and providing verbal affirmations, such as 'I understand' or 'Tell me more'.
- Asking clarifying questions to ensure comprehension of the patient's concerns and history.
- Making eye contact to convey attention and respect.
- Reading the patient's body language and responding appropriately to both verbal and non-verbal cues.
- Reflecting or paraphrasing what the patient has said to confirm understanding.
- Expressing empathy towards the patient's situation, showing that the listener is emotionally present.
- Avoiding premature judgments and allowing the patient to express themselves fully before responding.
By utilizing these approaches, the dental assistant not only verifies the accuracy of the patient's dental records but also ensures that the patient feels heard and understood, which is crucial in providing quality healthcare and building a trusting patient-provider relationship.