Case Studies with Critical Thinking Questions

Scenario 1
Avery is beginning her second week at her practicum. She has been given one of the best sites,
where she will gain a lot of valuable experience. She is not happy about putting in hours and not
getting paid for them. Avery feels that this is just another part of her school experience and,
therefore, she can skip whenever she feels like it. She has already been 10 minutes late on
three occasions and has missed one whole day.
Chapter 57: Practicum and The Job Search
Medical Assisting Administrative & Clinical Competencies 9th Edition
1. What does her practicum performance say about her as a medical assistant?
2. What does her performance say about her school?
3. What impact could her performance have on her career?
Scenario 2
You are on your way to a job interview for a position you really want. You thought you allowed
plenty of time for traffic and for any other problems that could arise. Traffic on the freeway is at a
standstill because of an accident, and you realize you are going to be late for your interview.
1. What should you do?
2. What impact can this situation have if you arrive late without notifying the facility?
3. What impression could your late arrival give to your interviewer?

1 answer

Scenario 1

1. What does her practicum performance say about her as a medical assistant?
Avery’s performance indicates a lack of professionalism and commitment to her role as a medical assistant. Her consistent tardiness and absence demonstrate a disregard for the responsibilities that come with her position. This behavior may suggest to her supervisors that she is not serious about her training or her career in healthcare, which is particularly concerning in a field that prioritizes punctuality, reliability, and dedication.

2. What does her performance say about her school?
Avery’s performance might reflect poorly on her school, as it implies that she may not fully understand the expectations and requirements of a practicum experience. It might suggest that the school has not effectively communicated the significance of professionalism and accountability in the workplace. Additionally, it raises questions about whether the school is providing adequate preparation for students to transition into real-world settings.

3. What impact could her performance have on her career?
Avery's performance could have negative consequences for her career prospects. If her supervisors provide negative feedback regarding her work ethic, it could jeopardize her chances of receiving recommendations or references that are essential for future job opportunities. Furthermore, it may hinder her ability to secure a job in the medical field, as employers seek individuals who are committed, reliable, and professional. This experience could tarnish her reputation among professionals in the industry, making it difficult to move forward in her career.


Scenario 2

1. What should you do?
If you find yourself in a situation where you’re going to be late for an interview, the first step is to remain calm and assess the situation. You should immediately call the facility to inform them that you are stuck in traffic, apologize for the inconvenience, and provide an estimated time of arrival. This communication demonstrates professionalism and respect for their time. If possible, you should also explore alternative routes or modes of transportation to minimize the delay.

2. What impact can this situation have if you arrive late without notifying the facility?
Arriving late without notifying the facility can lead to a number of negative consequences, including:

  • Creating a poor first impression and leaving the interviewer with doubts about your reliability and commitment.
  • Potentially disrupting the interview schedule, leading the interviewer to be rushed or frustrated, which could affect the overall tone of the interview.
  • Giving the impression that you lack organizational skills and are not capable of handling unforeseen circumstances effectively.

3. What impression could your late arrival give to your interviewer?
A late arrival without prior notice could lead the interviewer to perceive you as unprofessional, disorganized, or lacking respect for their time. This behavior might suggest that you do not value the opportunity or are unable to manage time effectively, which are critical skills in any job, particularly in fast-paced environments like healthcare. The interviewer might question your commitment to the position and your ability to perform under pressure, diminishing your chances of being hired.