What is the appropriate action for a medical assistant to take if a patient faints after receiving an injection?

When a patient faints after receiving an injection, placing the patient in a supine position is a critical step to help ensure their safety and improve blood flow to the brain. The supine position allows gravity to assist in returning blood flow to vital organs, particularly the brain, which is important for preventing further complications like a loss of consciousness.

By positioning the patient on their back, the medical assistant effectively aids in stabilizing the patient's condition and minimizes the chance of injury from falls or other accidents. This method is a standard first-aid response to fainting or syncope, as it promotes recovery by facilitating hemodynamic stability.

While administering oxygen, raising the patient's feet, or calling for emergency assistance may also be important actions in different scenarios, the immediate and most appropriate response to ensure the patient's safety and to manage fainting is to lay them down in a supine position.