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A patient calls into the office to report that her medication is "not working." Which of the following responses should the medical assistant make?

a) "I'm sorry to hear that. Please stop taking the medication."
b) "It's common; continue taking it, and let us know if it persists."
c) "I can't provide advice. Consult your physician for guidance."
d) "Try doubling the dosage for a few days."

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The correct response for a medical assistant when a patient reports their medication is not working is to encourage the patient to consult with their physician for guidance, as making changes to medication should be done by a qualified professional.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient reports that their medication is "not working," the appropriate response for a medical assistant should be: c) "I can't provide advice. Consult your physician for guidance." Medical assistants should refrain from giving medical advice such as stopping a medication, continuing without check-up, or altering the dosage. These decisions require the expertise of a physician who can evaluate the patient's condition and medication effectiveness.

It's important for healthcare professionals to act within the scope of their role. Offering medical advice without the proper qualifications can lead to serious harm and legal implications. Instead, they should encourage the patient to consult with their physician, who can make a proper assessment and provide a safe and effective treatment plan.

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