Orthodontic Assistant Practice Exam

What is the primary focus when assisting an anxious patient?

1. Pain management

2. Patient centered care

3. Efficient processing

4. Cost efficiency

The correct answer is: Patient centered care

The primary focus when assisting an anxious patient is centered on patient-centered care. This approach emphasizes understanding and addressing the specific needs, concerns, and feelings of the patient. In the context of an anxious individual, it involves actively listening to their worries, providing reassurance, and creating a supportive environment that promotes comfort and trust. Patient-centered care recognizes that each person's anxiety may stem from different sources, such as fear of pain, previous dental experiences, or uncertainty about procedures. By putting the patient's emotional and psychological needs first, the orthodontic assistant can tailor their approach—using techniques like clear communication, gentle handling, and providing information about each step of the process—to help alleviate anxiety and improve the overall experience. While pain management, efficient processing, and cost efficiency are important considerations in orthodontics, they do not specifically address the immediate emotional needs of an anxious patient. Therefore, focusing on creating a patient-centered experience is crucial in building rapport and ensuring a more comfortable treatment process.