Question

s an MA, you have a parent refusing the Measles vaccine. What should a MA communicate to the parent regarding vaccinating the child? Be respectful of the parent and other students in your responses. If your personal opinion differs from a parent, how do you provide professional recommendations

Answer 1

One of the important roles of an MA is to educate the patients and/or parents/guardian for children patients. For parents who refuse to have their children vaccinated, it is important to inform them of the importance of the measles vaccine and the chances for contracting the preventable disease. It is also best to inform of the safety and the risks in taking the vaccine so that the parents can make an informed decision. It is important to keep in mind that the parents are just cautious and need reassurance.

It is key to inform them of the following:

·         Measles is contagious. It is caused by a virus and transmitted through the air.

·         Measles is preventable with MMR vaccine. The recommended dose is twice, with the first given between 12-15 months and the second between 4-6 years.

·         The vaccine is safe and 97% effective ( with two doses).

In situations where your personal and/or professional opinions do not corroborate with the patients' or parents', it is best to take an objective approach using research-supported information and data. It is important to identify the issues the patients/ parents have on their care and respond according to specific needs.