Office Administrative Assistant Practice Exam

What is the most appropriate action when giving preoperative instructions to an anxious patient?

1. Provide brief instructions

2. Allow extra time to reinforce the instructions

3. Read the instructions aloud

4. Referral to a counselor

The correct answer is: Allow extra time to reinforce the instructions

When giving preoperative instructions to an anxious patient, allowing extra time to reinforce the instructions is essential. An anxious patient may struggle to process information due to their heightened stress levels. By dedicating additional time, the healthcare provider can ensure that the patient fully understands their preoperative care, which can alleviate some anxiety. This approach also provides an opportunity for the patient to ask questions, express concerns, and clarify any uncertainties about the procedure. Reinforcing the instructions can involve repeating key points, using simpler language, or demonstrating the steps if applicable. This personalized attention helps build trust and can significantly enhance the patient's sense of preparedness and control over their situation, which is often crucial in managing preoperative anxiety. Other options may not address the needs of an anxious patient as effectively. Brief instructions might leave gaps in understanding, reading instructions aloud does not encourage patient interaction or comprehension, and referring to a counselor may be appropriate in some situations, but it does not directly address the immediate need for understanding preoperative care. Thus, allowing sufficient time for instruction reinforcement is the most beneficial action in this scenario.