Patients are most likely to remember instructions when the medical assistant uses which of the following educational methods?

Patients are most likely to remember instructions when the information is provided in a written format. This is because written instructions allow patients to refer back to the material at their convenience, reinforcing their understanding over time. Written materials can clarify complex instructions, serve as a physical reminder, and enable patients to absorb and process the information at their own pace.

In practice, people often retain information better when they can see it in writing since it can be helpful for those who are visual learners and prefer to read and reflect on information. Written instructions can also reduce misunderstandings that might occur during verbal communication alone, ensuring that patients have the details they need to follow through with their care.

While verbal, auditory, and visual methods can all contribute to a patient’s understanding and retention of information, they may not provide the same long-term reference that written instructions offer, making writing a particularly effective tool in patient education.