In this situation, what is the most appropriate action for the MA to take?

ACTION ONE
Tamara should maintain a professional distance from the patient by sitting on the corner of the desk.
ACTION TWO
Tamara should sit down next to the patient.

ACTION TWO
Tamara should sit down next to the patient.
FOR THE PATIENT
The patient was diagnosed with stage 1 non-small cell lung cancer, and underwent surgery. Because the cancer had not yet spread, and the surgeon believes that he was able to remove the entire tumor, the prognosis for the patient was as good as can be expected for any lung cancer patient. The patient’s positive attitude is likely to be a factor in his favor.
FOR THE PRACTICE
The practice retained the patient, and the patient felt that he received excellent care from the clinic. This resulted in referrals that increased the clinic’s business.
FOR THE EMPLOYEE
The MA was congratulated for her adept handling of the patient’s question and her ability to keep the patient calm under difficult circumstances. This was reflected in her employee records and counted heavily in her favor when she sought advancement at the practice.