Certified Medical Assistant Exam Prep

Answer: C - Clients with depression are often overwhelmed by the intensity of their emotions. Talking about these feelings can be beneficial. Initially, the medical assistant should encourage the client to describe in detail how she is feeling. Sharing the burden with another person can provide some relief, so the medical assistant should listen attentively, encourage the client, and validate the intensity of the client’s experience. It is important at this point that the medical assistant does not attempt to “fix” the client’s difficulties or offer clichés. These remarks belittle the client’s feelings or make the client feel more guilty and worthless.