Which of the following best describes an important personal trait for a PA?

The ability to be both empathetic and assertive is essential for a physician assistant because the role requires balancing compassion for patients with the necessary decisiveness in clinical decision-making. Empathy allows PAs to connect with patients, understand their concerns, and provide emotional support, which is crucial in fostering a trustworthy patient-provider relationship. On the other hand, assertiveness is important for advocating for patient needs, making clinical judgments, and communicating effectively within a healthcare team. This combination ensures that PAs can offer comprehensive care while maintaining professional authority.

The other options do not align with the key traits needed for a PA. Independence without guidance might suggest a lack of teamwork, which is counterproductive in healthcare settings where collaboration is vital. Preferring routine tasks over critical thinking would limit the ability to adapt to varying patient needs and complex situations, which are common in clinical practice. A willingness to avoid patient contact does not align with the core responsibilities of a PA, whose role is centered around direct patient care and interaction.