What role do medical assistants play in surgical settings?

Medical assistants play a crucial role in surgical settings by preparing patients for surgical procedures and actively assisting during those procedures. This preparation may involve explaining the procedure to the patient, ensuring that they are physically and emotionally ready, and instructing them on pre-operative instructions (such as fasting or medication adjustments). During surgeries, medical assistants may assist the surgical team by passing instruments, maintaining a sterile environment, and ensuring that required supplies are readily available, which supports the efficiency and safety of the surgical process.

In contrast, the other choices highlight roles that are either limited in scope or do not encompass the comprehensive responsibilities of medical assistants in the surgical context. Exclusively managing post-surgical care focuses on a different phase of patient care and does not reflect the hands-on involvement during surgeries. Conducting billing and insurance verification, while an important administrative task within healthcare, is not a direct part of the medical assistant's role in surgical settings. Similarly, scheduling follow-up appointments is important but represents only a small facet of patient interaction, not illustrating the supportive and active role that medical assistants have before and during surgical procedures.