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.

While you are working as a medical assistant in a busy office practice, the following three things occur at the same time:

1. You have a telephone call waiting for you; a woman wants to speak to you regarding her 4-year-old daughter. According to the administrative assistant, who took the call, the daughter has a fever of 103°F, and the mother wants to know how much acetaminophen or aspirin she can give her.

2. A 56-year-old male in room 2 comes out of the room to tell you that his chest is hurting and he is having difficulty breathing.

3. Three patients are waiting to be seen, and you have only the patient in room 2 ready for the physician. The other two examination rooms are empty.

As you read this chapter, consider each situation and determine the order in which you will respond. Explain your decisions.