What should a medical assistant do when encountering a patient at risk of an allergic reaction?

When a medical assistant encounters a patient at risk of an allergic reaction, asking for a list of allergies is an essential step. This action ensures that the healthcare provider has critical information about substances that the patient may have an adverse reaction to, which can include medications, foods, environmental allergens, and materials like latex. Knowing the patient’s allergies allows for appropriate precautions to be taken, such as avoiding the administration of any medications or treatments that could trigger an allergic response.

Gathering this information not only enhances patient safety but also empowers the medical assistant to communicate effectively with the healthcare team, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding the patient's care plan. Understanding the patient’s specific allergies is fundamental to preventing potentially serious allergic reactions or anaphylaxis during medical procedures or treatments.