What aspect of patient care should a Medical Assistant prioritize following a diagnostic test?

Prioritizing the review of test results and discussing them with the patient is crucial for several reasons. First, it ensures that patients are informed about their health status, which is vital for their understanding of potential diagnoses and treatment options. Communication fosters a trusting relationship between the patient and healthcare providers, making it easier for patients to ask questions and express concerns.

Additionally, discussing test results allows for immediate clarification of any uncertainties about what the findings mean, how they may affect the patient's health journey, and what the next steps may involve. This proactive approach can significantly improve overall patient satisfaction and compliance with follow-up care or additional treatments.

Other options focus on different levels of engagement with the patient. Conducting the test again for accuracy is generally unnecessary unless there are specific concerns about the test process. Following up only if the patient asks could leave important information uncommunicated, and documenting results without interaction misses the opportunity for patient education and support. Thus, reviewing and discussing the results directly with the patient is the best practice following a diagnostic test.