What could the auxiliary have done to prevent this episode?

A 25-year-old female presents for routine dental treatment. This appointment is her second visit. On the first visit, she was very anxious, but tolerated the procedures well. At this appointment, the patient is kept waiting in the operatory for a longer period of time due to another patient’s treatment. As the dentist prepares to administer the local anesthesia, the auxiliary notes that the patient is beginning to breathe rapidly and deeply.

Let the patient know about waiting due to the schedule and therefore reduce anxiety.