Final answer:
Medical assistants should refer to the office's policies and procedures manual for clarification on how to perform tasks to ensure they follow the correct and up-to-date protocols.
Step-by-step explanation:
When medical assistants need clarification on how to perform an assigned task, they should refer to the office's policies and procedures manual. This document provides comprehensive guidelines on various aspects of the office's operations, including task protocols, patient care procedures, and office management systems. It is created to ensure consistency in practices and to provide a standard reference for all employees regarding the proper way to carry out tasks within the healthcare setting. Employee handbooks may contain general employment information but may not have detailed procedural instructions. While colleagues can provide advice, it may not always reflect current policies; personal notes can be useful but may not be comprehensive or up-to-date.