What action should a medical assistant take to prepare a patient for a mole excision?

The appropriate action for preparing a patient for a mole excision is to cleanse the site with surgical soap and an antiseptic. This step is essential because it helps to reduce the risk of infection at the excision site. Surgical soap is designed to thoroughly clean the skin, while antiseptics further ensure that any potential pathogens are eliminated from the area. This creates a sterile environment essential for any surgical procedure, thereby increasing the likelihood of a successful excision and proper healing.

Other options, while they may seem relevant, do not prioritize the necessary preparation steps required before the excision. For instance, shaving the area around the mole could lead to irritation or introduce bacteria if not done carefully. Applying a bandage prematurely could obstruct the procedure and be counterproductive, as it would cover the area that needs access for excision. Measuring the mole's dimensions, although potentially useful information for the physician, does not directly contribute to the immediate preparation required for a clean and safe surgical environment.