Texas Medical Assistant Certification Practice Test

Is it helpful to fill in the words for speech challenged patients when they struggle to express themselves?

1. Yes, it provides clarity

2. No, it can confuse them

3. Only in certain cases

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: No, it can confuse them

Filling in words for speech-challenged patients can sometimes hinder their communication skills and may lead to frustration or confusion. When a patient is trying to express themselves, they may have their own way of communicating their thoughts and feelings. By interjecting and providing words for them, it can interrupt their thought process and may prevent them from practicing their speech or finding their own words. This can lead to a lack of confidence in their ability to communicate effectively. Furthermore, when patients are given words without being allowed to articulate their own, it can create a dependency, where they might rely on others to speak for them rather than developing their own communication strategies. It is essential to support these patients by allowing them the space and time to express themselves, even if it takes longer or requires patience from the listener. Thus, providing them with the words can ultimately be counterproductive and may create confusion in the interaction.