In all the chapters the Case Studies represent situations similar to those that the medical assistant may encounter in daily practice. Students are encouraged to consider the case study as they read each chapter.

You work in a dermatology clinic, and one of your patients is a 35-year-old female who is scheduled to have a wart removed from her left hand. Her boyfriend is with her to drive her home. She appears apprehensive and wants to know exactly what is going to happen.

As you read this chapter, consider the following questions:

1. How could you reduce the patient's apprehension?

2. What would you say to her before the physician arrives to perform the minor surgery?