What should a Medical Assistant do if they are asked to perform a procedure outside their scope of practice?

When a Medical Assistant is asked to perform a procedure outside their scope of practice, the most appropriate course of action is to politely decline and inform the supervising healthcare provider about the situation. Medical Assistants are trained to recognize the limits of their expertise and legal responsibilities. Acting outside their scope of practice can not only pose risks to patient safety but may also lead to legal repercussions for both the assistant and the supervising provider.

By declining the request and communicating with the healthcare provider, the Medical Assistant helps ensure that patient care standards are maintained and that procedures are conducted only by qualified individuals. This approach fosters a responsible and ethical work environment where patient safety and legal compliance are prioritized.

In contrast, proceeding with the procedure under supervision could still expose the patient to risk if the Medical Assistant lacks the required skills or knowledge. Asking a colleague for help might not address the fundamental issue of exceeding the boundaries of one’s role. Performing the task solely to avoid conflict undermines professional integrity and could lead to serious consequences for the patient and the Medical Assistant's career.