What is the best method for an MA to gather additional details from a patient regarding their chief complaint?

Asking open-ended questions is the best method for a medical assistant (MA) to gather additional details regarding a patient's chief complaint because this approach encourages the patient to elaborate on their symptoms and experiences. Open-ended questions invite the patient to share more information in their own words, which can lead to a clearer understanding of their condition. This type of questioning allows patients to provide context, describe their symptoms in detail, and express any concerns or feelings they may have regarding their health.

In contrast, closed-ended questions typically limit responses to "yes" or "no" or to a specific set of choices. While they can be useful for confirming specific details, they do not provide the depth of understanding that open-ended questions do. Providing a questionnaire may help in gathering structured information, but it may lack the flexibility and personal interaction that allows for further clarification. Conducting a physical examination focuses on the physiological aspects of the patient's condition, but it does not directly gather patient-reported information about their symptoms or experiences. Therefore, using open-ended questions is the most effective method to enhance communication and gain comprehensive insight into the patient's chief complaint.