MA Flashcards
(221 cards)
1
Q
Which of the following steps for a fingerstick should a medical assistant complete first?
- Cleanse the site with an antiseptic wipe.
- Select the appropriate part of the third and fourth finger.
- Position the blade of the lancet across the lines of the fingertip.
- Confirm the correct identity of the patient.
A
Confirm the correct identity of the patient.
2
Q
A medical assistant is scheduling diagnostic tests for a patient’s liver and pancreas. Which of the following system is being assessed?
- Cardiovascular
- Integumentary
- Respiratory
- Digestive
A
Digestive
3
Q
at work, a medical assistant cared for a neighbor who sustained multiple injuries in a fall. After work, another neighbor asks the assistant what happened to the neighbor who fell. Following the American Association of Medical Assistant’s code of ethics, which of the following responses should the assistant make?
- “ she broke a couple of bones, but she’ll be fine.”
- “it was nothing serious. You’ll see her soon enough.”
- “we’ll see her every week or so during her recovery.”
- “I cant share any information about what happens at my job.”
A
“I cant share any information about what happens at my job.”
4
Q
A medical assistant is caring for a patient who is 5’ 7” tall. Which of the following is the patient’s height in centimeters?
- 170 cm
- 145 cm
- 114 cm
- 26 cm
A
170 cm
(When making this conversion, the assistant should rst convert 5’ 7’’ to 67 inches. Next, the assistant should convert inches to
centimeters by multiplying by 2.54. The result is 170.18 cm, which rounds to 170 cm.)
5
Q
A medical assistant observes a hematoma developing at the site of a venous blood draw. The assistant should do which of the following?
- Observe the site to see if the hematoma worsens.
- Ask the patient to apply pressure to the area.
- Release the tourniquet and stop the draw.
- Call for a nurse and assess the patient’s condition.
A
Release the tourniquet and stop the draw.
(Once a hematoma begins, the assistant should stop the draw to prevent further damage. The assistant should apply pressure
to the area to prevent further hematoma development.)
6
Q
A medical assistant is caring for a patient who weighs 72 kg. What is this patient’s weight in lb?
- 158.4 lb
- 32.7 lb
- 115.2 lb
- 45.1 lb
A
158.4 lb
(To convert from kilograms to pounds, the assistant should multiple the patient’s weight in kilograms by 2.2: 72 kg x 2.2 = 158.4. Therefore, the patient’s converted weight is 158.4 lb.)
7
Q
When measuring a patient’s respiratory rate, which of the following actions should a medical assistant take to
ensure an accurate reading?
-Count the respirations while the patient thinks his pulse is being obtained.
-Instruct the patient to breathe normally while counting his breaths.
-Count the respirations for 15 seconds and multiply by 2.
-Instruct the patient to take deep breaths while obtaining his pulse.
A
Count the respirations while the patient thinks his pulse is being obtained.
(In order to obtain the most accurate reading, the assistant should count the respirations without the patient being aware that his breathing is being assessed. The patient can easily control or alter breathing patterns
when he is conscious that the assistant is paying attention to his respirations)
8
Q
A medical assistant is explaining to a female patient how to collect a clean-catch urine specimen. Which of the
following instructions should the assistant include?
-Place the removable lid of the specimen container face down on a clean surface.
-Clean the perineal area from back to front with three antiseptic towelettes.
-With the labia spread, urinate a small amount into the toilet before collecting the sample.
-To collect the urine, press the specimen container’s edges up against the perineum.
A
With the labia spread, urinate a small amount into the toilet before collecting the sample.
(A clean-catch urine specimen is a midstream specimen. The patient must begin urinating into the toilet, stop, and then catch
the “mid-stream” of the urine with the specimen container.)
9
Q
A medical assistant is collecting vital signs from a 6-year-old child. The assistant should recognize that which of the following vital signs is outside of the expected reference range for this patient and should be reported to the provider? -Respiratory rate 22/min -Heart rate 140/min -Blood pressure 110/72 mm Hg -Temperature 37° C (98.6° F)
A
Heart rate 140/min
(A heart rate of 140/min is outside of the expected reference range for a 6-year-old child. A heart rate ranging from 70 to
130/min is the expected reference range for a 6-year old child.)
10
Q
A medical assistant is collecting data from a patient who has cold sores on his lips. The assistant should identify
that which of the following viruses causes this condition?
-Inuenza A
-Herpes simplex type 1
-Epstein-Barr
-Rhabdovirus
A
Herpes simplex type 1
The assistant should recognize that the herpes simplex virus type 1 causes cold sores.
11
Q
A medical assistant is caring for an infant who suddenly becomes unresponsive for unknown reasons. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
- Check for a foreign object in the mouth with a blind nger sweep.
- Perform abdominal thrusts.
- Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
- Perform ve back blows
A
Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
(f an infant suddenly becomes unresponsive, the assistant should immediately initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation for 2
min prior to activating emergency response measures.)
12
Q
A medical assistant is transcribing a prescription for a medication that a patient should take before meals. Which
of the following abbreviations should the assistant use to indicate when the patient should take the medication?
-pc
-hs
-ac
-prn
A
ac
The abbreviation “ac” means “before meals.”
13
Q
A medical assistant is assisting a patient whose insurance does not cover immunizations. To which of the following
community resources should assistant refer the patient?
-American Red Cross
-Department of Health and Human -Services (HHS)
-Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
-Child Protective Services
A
Department of Health and Human -Services (HHS)
The HHS provides immunizations and other health services for people who lack necessary insurance coverage
14
Q
A medical assistant is replacing a sharps container in an examination room and receives a small laceration on her
arm from the plastic lid. Which of the following types of documentation should the assistant complete as a result of this incident?
-Advance Beneciary Notice (ABN)
-OSHA Form 301
-CMS-1500 claim form
-Quality control log
A
OSHA Form 301
(The assistant should recognize that the OSHA Form 301 is an incident report used when reporting details about a workrelated injury or illness.)
15
Q
A medical assistant should use which of the following solutions to prepare a patient’s skin prior to drawing blood cultures?
- Benzoin tincture
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Chlorhexidine
A
Chlorhexidine
Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic agent that is used to clean skin before a blood culture draw
16
Q
A medical assistant is reinforcing teaching with a patient who is scheduled for a standard 12-lead EKG. Which of the following statements should the assistant make?
- “You can expect the procedure to take about 20 minutes.”
- “You must sit in an upright position during this procedure.”
- “You will feel some electrical pulsations during this procedure.”
- “You should refrain from talking during the procedure.”
A
“You should refrain from talking during the procedure.”
(The assistant should instruct the patient to refrain from talking during the procedure. Even slight movements can interfere
with the EKG tracing.)
17
Q
A patient presents to an emergency department with a large laceration to the wrist that is bleeding profusely.
Which of the following actions should the medical assistant take rst?
-Don gloves.
-Elevate the extremity above the wound site.
-Examine the wound site for foreign objects.
-Place pressure directly on the wound with sterile gauze.
A
Don gloves (The assistant must don gloves prior to wound care to prevent further contamination)
18
Q
A medical assistant is administering an intramuscular injection into the gluteus medius of an adult patient. At
which of the following angles should the assistant insert the needle?
-15° angle
-25° angle
-45° angle
-90° angle
A
90° angle
A 90° angle is used primarily for intramuscular injections in adult patients.
19
Q
A medical assistant is preparing to assist a provider with suturing a wound. Which of the following items should be in the sterile eld for this procedure? -Bandages -Skin retractor -Scalpel -Hemostat
A
Hemostat
A hemostat would be used in a suturing procedure and must be located in the sterile field
20
Q
According to the regulation of controlled substances, which of the following is true of a Schedule I drug?
- Are available for unlimited rells
- Are available over the counter (OTC)
- Have no accepted medical use
- Have a low potential for abuse
A
Have no accepted medical use
(Schedule I drugs have been deemed to have a high potential for abuse, are unavailable for prescription rells, are not
available OTC, and are not accepted for medical use. Possession of these drugs is illegal.)
21
Q
The laboratory report on a patient indicates a hemoglobin level of 7 g/dL. Which of the following is the rst action
for the medical assistant to take?
-Notify the provider.
-Inform the patient.
-Record the results in the medical record.
-Repeat the test to ensure accuracy
A
Notify the provider.
Because the results indicate a critically low level of hemoglobin, the assistant should notify the provider
22
Q
A medical assistant is performing an EKG on a patient. Which of the following describes the appropriate placement of the electrodes? -Tabs downward on the arm -Tabs downward on the knee -Tabs upward on the chest -Tabs downward on the lower leg
A
Tabs downward on the arm
Tabs should be placed downward to reduce tension and pulling on the electrodes
23
Q
A clinic schedules all cardiac patients on Mondays and Wednesdays and all oncology patients on Tuesdays and
Thursdays. Which of the following types of scheduling is the clinic using?
-Stream scheduling
-Cluster scheduling
-Wave scheduling
-Modied-wave scheduling
A
Cluster scheduling (Cluster scheduling is grouping patients who have similar conditions into specic time slots or days.)
24
Q
At work, a medical assistant cared for a neighbor who sustained multiple injuries in a fall. After work, another
neighbor asks the assistant what happened to the neighbor who fell. Following the American Association of
Medical Assistants’ (AAMA) Code of Ethics, which of the following responses should the assistant make?
-“She broke a couple of bones, but she’ll be fine.”
-“It was nothing serious. You’ll see her soon enough.”
-“We’ll see her every week or so during her recovery.”
-“I can’t share any information about what happens at my job.”
A
“I can’t share any information about what happens at my job.”
(It is the assistant’s responsibility to remain within the legal scope of practice both within and outside of the clinical setting.
This response by the assistant follows the AAMA Code of Ethics by maintaining patient condentiality.)
25
A medical assistant is talking with a patient who is experiencing home displacement following a hurricane. To
which of the following resources should the assistant refer the patient for information, support, and links to
community services?
-Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
-American Red Cross
-National Council on Aging
-Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
American Red Cross
(The primary purpose of the American Red Cross is to provide crucial disaster response services. The American Red Cross also
coordinates mental health resources for survivors of disasters.)
26
A medical assistant is preparing a patient who has bilateral below-the-knee amputations for an EKG. Which of the
following sites should the assistant select for electrode placement?
-Lower arms
-Elbows
-Abdomen
-Knees
Abdomen
| The assistant should place the electrodes on the abdomen or thighs of a person who has a below-the-knee amputation.
27
When completing documentation in a patient's paper medical record, a medical assistant realizes she made an
error. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
- Leave the error in the medical record.
- Draw a line through the error and initial it.
- Erase the entry in the medical record.
- Use correction uid to correct the entry
Draw a line through the error and initial it.
(The assistant should draw a line through the error, insert the correction, write the date next to the correction, and initial or
sign the correction.)
28
```
A medical assistant is preparing a patient for an enema. In which of the following positions should the assistant
place the patient for this procedure?
-Fowler's position
-Semi-Fowler's position
-Sims' position
-Lithotomy position
```
Sims' position
(Sims' position is used for rectal examinations, rectal instillations, and some pelvic examinations. An enema is a rectal instillation.)
29
While measuring a patient's pulse, the medical assistant should recognize that which of the following
patient factors can contribute to an erroneous pulse rate?
-Blood pressure
-Weight
-Movement
-Hydration
Movement
(The patient's movement can alter results in the pulse measurement because of possible change in heart rate. If the patient is moving during the pulse measurement, the assistant might receive an erroneous result)
30
Which of the following tests is granted waived status under Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)?
- Rapid strep test
- Urine microscopy analysis
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone
- White blood cell dierential
Rapid strep test
| The rapid strep test is granted waived status under CLIA
31
A provider examines an older adult patient who is disabled and has a lesion on her arm. A medical assistant should
anticipate a referral for this patient to which of the following ancillary services?
-Diagnostic services
-Home health care
-Rehabilitation services
-Hospice care
Home health care
(Home health care organizations provide assistance with medications, wound care, and other services that need to be provided in a patient's place of residence. Home health care is the most appropriate service to provide daily wound care for this patient.)
32
Which of the following statements made by a medical assistant demonstrates an understanding of required patient
identication techniques?
-"I can obtain the patient's name by looking in the patient's chart prior to obtaining blood samples."
-"I will ask the patient to state and spell her full name and provide her date of birth before administering
vaccines."
-"I can look at the daily schedule to obtain the patient's name and the reason for the visit when checking the
patient in."
"I will ask a coworker to conrm the identity of the patient prior to collecting a urine specimen."
"I will ask the patient to state and spell her full name and provide her date of birth before administering
vaccines."
(The Joint Commission requires conrmation of patient identity through two forms of identication. The Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) requires a patient both spell and state their full name)
33
A medical assistant receives a telephone call from a patient who is hesitant about discussing a new medical
concern unless the conversation is with a provider. The assistant should use which of the following techniques to
address the patient's reluctance?
-Tell the patient he has nothing to worry about.
-Ask the patient why he does not trust the assistant with the information.
-Use a reflective statement to recognize the patient's concerns.
-Provide examples of patients who have similar concerns to reassure the patient
Use a reflective statement to recognize the patient's concerns.
(Reflection is an active listening technique that demonstrates to the patient that the assistant is listening to what is being said and is taking the patient's feelings into consideration. The assistant should use this communication technique to express recognition of the patient's concerns.)
34
A medical assistant needs to type a professional business letter from the office. Which of the following formats is
appropriate?
-Keep flush with the left margin.
-Leave two lines between the closing and the typed signature.
-Center the inside address and greeting.
-Omit the date and the typed signature.
Keep flush with the left margin.
| In block letter style, the entire text is left aligned
35
```
A medical assistant is preparing to administer a subcutaneous injection for a patient. Which of the following needle
sizes should the assistant choose?
-1/2 - to / -inch needle, 25 gauge
-1- to 2-inch needle, 18 gauge
-3/8 - to 5/8 -inch needle, 27 gauge 3
-1/2 - to 1-inch needle, 21 gauge
```
1/2 - to / -inch needle, 25 gauge
(The assistant should select this needle size for a subcutaneous injection. The assistant should use a / - to / -inch needle to reach the subcutaneous layer. Subcutaneous refers to the adipose tissue below the skin and above the muscle. Using a smaller gauge and needle size allows low viscosity medications to be inserted through a smaller hole and allows for minimal
tissue damage)
36
Which of the following is the largest and uppermost section of the brain?
- Cerebrum
- Cerebellum
- Brainstem
- Diencephalon
Cerebrum
(The cerebrum is the largest and uppermost section of the brain. It is divided into lobes and separated into the right and left
hemisphere.)
37
When assisting a provider with a punch biopsy of a mole, which of the following tasks should a medical assistant
expect to perform?
-Receive and prepare tissue specimens for processing.
-Swab uids from the biopsy site.
-Retract the edges of the biopsy site.
-Place sutures at the incision site.
Receive and prepare tissue specimens for processing.
(The assistant is responsible for receiving and preparing tissue specimens obtained from a punch biopsy for processing by the
laboratory)
38
A medical assistant works at a practice that is part of an Accountable Care Organization (ACO). This designation
means that the practice's health care team will focus on improving care for patients who have which of the
following types of medical coverage?
-Medicaid
-Preferred provider organization (PPO)
-Medicare
-Health maintenance organization (HMO)
Medicare
(ACOs have a strong relationship with patient-centered medical homes as mandated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid
Services. The intention of this relationship is to increase the quality of care for patients who have Medicare health coverage.)
39
Which of the following parenteral medication routes should a medical assistant administer for a slow
release of medication into the blood stream?
-Transdermal
-Sublingual
-Buccal
-Inhalation
Transdermal
| Transdermal patches are infused with medication that is slowly absorbed through the skin and into the blood stream
40
According to OSHA's guidelines for proper waste disposal, which of the following should a medical assistant place in a regular waste container?
- A positive culture plate
- Suture staples
- An empty urine container
- A capillary tube
An empty urine container
(The assistant should place an empty urine container in a regular trash container, unless there is visible blood present.)
41
Several patients arrive at a clinic at the same time requesting care. A medical assistant should recognize that which of the following patient's chief complaints is the priority for the provider to address?
- An adult patient who reports continuing symptoms of GERD
- An young adult patient who is irritable and has a localized rash on her upper body
- A middle adult patient who demonstrates depression and frustration
- An adult patient who is experiencing dyspnea and congestion
An adult patient who is experiencing dyspnea and congestion
(Dyspnea, or diculty breathing, coupled with congestion can be a sign of a life-threatening medical emergency. The assistant should recognize that this patient's chief complaint is the priority for the provider to address.)
42
A medical assistant should identify that which of the following vitamins is fat soluble?
- Niacin
- Folate
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
Vitamin A
(The assistant should identify that vitamin A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble vitamins, which means these vitamins are stored in the adipose tissue.)
43
A medical assistant should identify which of the following as a characteristic of anorexia nervosa?
- Excessive Excersing
- Binging and purging
- Use of laxatives or diuretics
- Erosion of tooth enamel
```
Excessive Excersing
(The assistant should identify that excessive exercise is a characteristic of the eating disorder anorexia nervosa. Other symptoms include self-starvation, excessive fear of gaining weight, and ritualistic eating behaviors.)
```
44
A medical assistant is preparing to le the paper chart for Mary St. Thomas. Where should this le be placed when led along with the charts for Mary Perez, Elizabeth Saint, and John A. Thomas?
- After John A. Thomas
- Before Mary Perez
- After Elizabeth Saint and before John A. Thomas
- After Mary Perez and before Elizabeth Saint
After Elizabeth Saint and before John A. Thomas
(The chart of Mary St. Thomas ts alphabetically after Elizabeth Saint and before John A. Thomas because the "St." should be led as if spelled out as "Saint")
45
A patient informs a medical assistant that he gets headaches when he reads from a computer monitor. The assistant should place this information in which of the following locations when using the SOAP approach to organizing medical records?
- Subjective
- Objective
- Assessment
- Plan
Subjective
(Subjective data includes patient symptoms, non-measurable data, and patient statements. Therefore, the patient's report of headaches when reading from a computer screen would be documented in the Subjective (S) section of the record.)
46
A medical assistant is preparing to create a report about patients who have a family history of breast cancer. Which
of the following types of software will allow the assistant to sort, retrieve, and combine information for this report?
-Database management
-Accounting and billing
-Appointment scheduling
-Word processor
Database management
(The assistant should use a database management system to sort and retrieve information quickly. A database allows the
assistant to track specic information and create customized applications to sort the information and create reports)
47
For a 12-lead EKG, which of the following is the correct placement for the V4 electrode?
- At the fourth intercostal space, right margin of the sternum
- Under the left arm, on the midaxillary line
- At the fth intercostal space, left midclavicular line
- At the fourth intercostal space, right midclavicular line
At the fth intercostal space, left midclavicular line
| This is the correct placement of electrode V4
48
A medical assistant is entering a new prescription into a patient's electronic medical record (EMR). While entering
the prescription, an alert notifying the assistant of a medication interaction appears on the screen. Which of the
following actions should the assistant take?
-Override the alert and enter the prescription.
-Call the pharmacist to obtain information about alternative medications.
-Notify the patient of possible interactions with the prescribed medication.
-Consult with the provider before continuing to process the prescription.
Consult with the provider before continuing to process the prescription.
(If an alert appears while entering a prescription into an EMR, the assistant should recognize that the provider needs to be consulted due to the medication's potential interactions with other medications or certain foods. The assistant should consult
the provider before continuing with prescription entry.)
49
Which of the following statements made by a new medical assistant, regarding an artifact, demonstrates a need for
further teaching?
-"A broken recording is not caused by patient movement."
-"A wandering baseline artifact is due to patient movement and respiration."
-"Electrical interference on the EKG is not caused by cell phones."
-"Somatic tremor is due to muscle movement."
"Electrical interference on the EKG is not caused by cell phones."
(This statement demonstrates a need for further teaching because cell phones can be a cause of electrical interference on the EKG)
50
A medical assistant is reviewing a patient's medical history prior to the patient's appointment. Which of the
following laboratory results indicates the need to schedule an extension of the current visit?
-Hematocrit 42.2%
-BUN 10 mg/dL
-Potassium 4.3 mEq/L
-Fasting blood glucose 168 mg/dL
Fasting blood glucose 168 mg/dL
(This fasting blood glucose level is above the expected reference range of 70 to 130 mg/dL. The assistant should notify the
provider and schedule an extension of the patient's visit.)
51
A medical assistant is reviewing laboratory results that conrm a patient has varicella zoster virus. The assistant
should identify that this micro-organism causes which of the following types of infections?
-Mumps
-Measles
-Rubella
-Chickenpox
Chickenpox
| Varicella zoster virus can cause chickenpox or shingles.
52
A patient presents to an oce for treatment. After reading the consent form, she expresses concerns about the
treatment. Who is responsible for counseling the patient?
- Administrative assistant
- Medical assistant
- Provider
- Administrative manager
Provider
| A provider is the only one of these personnel who can practice medicine and give medical advice.
53
A medical assistant is caring for a child who has varicella zoster virus. The assistant should recognize that varicella
is transferred through which of the following modes of transmission?
-Airborne
-Bloodborne
-Vector-borne
-Foodborne
Airborne
(Varicella zoster virus, also known as chickenpox, is spread by airborne and contact transmission. Contaminated particles can
be inhaled through tiny droplets that are exhaled by the infected person)
54
Which of the following laboratory results should the medical assistant recognize is abnormal?
- Sodium 138 mEq/L
- Red blood cell count 5.2/mm3
- Platelets 350/mm3
- Potassium 3 mEq/L
Potassium 3 mEq/L
| This potassium level is below the expected reference range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L.
55
An adolescent is covered by two insurance policies under her divorced parents who have birthdays in May and
August and have joint custody. Which policy is the primary policy for the adolescent?
-The policy that the adolescent chooses
-The policy written in which the adolescent is the dependent
-The policy that was written rst
-The policy of the parent who has the earliest birth month
The policy of the parent who has the earliest birth month
According to the third-party payer guidelines, the primary insurance policy is determined by which parent has the earliest
birth month. This is also known as "the birthday rule."
56
A medical assistant is talking with a patient who reports forgetting whether she has taken her prescribed
medication each day. Which of the following responses should the assistant make?
-"I'll check with the doctor, but I don't think missing an occasional dose will do any harm."
-"Count how many pills are left in the bottle to gure out what you've taken."
-"Try putting your medications in a weekly medication dispenser for the upcoming week."
-"Ask a neighbor to come in every day and observe while you take your medication."
"Try putting your medications in a weekly medication dispenser for the upcoming week."
The assistant is responsible for providing encouragement and guidance for patients when discussing medication compliance.
Suggesting the use of a tool designed for maintaining medication compliance is within the assistant's scope of practice.
57
A medication container states there is 250 mg of medication in each scored tablet. The provider orders 375 mg. How
many tablets should the medical assistant give the patient?
-1.5 tablets
-1 tablet
-2 tablets
-0.5 tablets
1.5 tablets
The assistant should recognize that 250 multiplied by 1.5 equals 375. Therefore, 1.5 tablets provides the required 375 mg.
58
A medical assistant is reviewing laboratory requisitions. For which of the following patient conditions should the
assistant perform a capillary collection rather than a venipuncture?
-Edema in the ngers
-HIV-positive
-Previous thromboses
-Hypothyroidism
Previous thromboses
The assistant should consider a capillary puncture when the amount of blood needed is minimal and a patient has a history of
thromboses.
59
```
Which of the following cell structures is instrumental in helping the body mobilize and secrete mucus from the
respiratory tract?
-Centrioles
-Ribosomes
-Cilia
-Mitochondria
```
Cilia
Cilia are hairlike projections found in the lungs that are capable of movement and are instrumental in helping with mobilizing
and secreting mucus from the respiratory tract.
60
A medical assistant is assisting with the physical examination of a patient who has scabies. Besides gloves, which of
the following pieces of personal protective equipment should the assistant wear?
-Gown
-Mask
-Goggles
-N95 Respirator
Gown
Scabies requires contact precautions; therefore, the assistant should wear gloves and a gown. Other patient conditions that
require contact precautions include hepatitis A, rotavirus, and herpes zoster (shingles).
61
A medical assistant is reinforcing teaching about a cardiac event monitor with a patient. Which of the following
statements by the patient indicates an understanding of the procedure?
-"I will return the monitor after wearing it -for 24 hours."
-"I will discontinue my usual exercise routine."
-"I will avoid removing the electrodes."
-"I will record any symptoms I experience in the event log.
"I will record any symptoms I experience in the event log."
62
A medical assistant is testing a patient's visual acuity using a Snellen chart. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
- Position the patient 40 feet from the chart.
- Make sure the patient does not lean forward during the test.
- Have the patient close her left eye behind an occluder when testing the right eye.
- Ask the patient to read the smallest line rst and then proceed to the largest.
Make sure the patient does not lean forward during the test.
| If the patient leans forward, the distance from the chart will be altered and the test results will be inaccurate.
63
A medical assistant is caring for a 4-month-old infant who has a temperature of 100.4° F. Which of the following is
this temperature when converted to Celsius?
-38° C
-36.5° C
-37.5° C
-34.2° C
38° C
To convert a temperature from Fahrenheit to Celsius, the assistant should subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit temperature and
multiply the result by / : (100.4° F - 32) x / = 38° C.
64
Where do cardiac electrical impulses originate in the heart?
- Atrioventricular node
- Bundle of His
- Purkinje bers
- Sinoatrial node
Sinoatrial node
65
```
Which of the following documents indicates how a patient's medical records will be used and disclosed by a medical
oce?
-Explanation of benets (EOB)
-Notice of Privacy Practices (NPP)
-Advance Beneciary Notice (ABN)
-Assignment of benets
```
Notice of Privacy Practices (NPP)
| An NPP details how a patient's medical records will be used and disclosed by a medical oce.
66
A medical assistant is preparing a patient who has congestive heart failure (CHF) for an examination by the
provider. Which of the following manifestations should the assistant expect?
- Palpitations
- Headaches
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath
| Expected manifestations of CHF include shortness of breath, fatigue, and edema.
67
Which of the following items in a medical oce are considered administrative oce supplies?
- Computers, telephones, and chairs
- Letterhead, envelopes, and business cards
- Examination table paper, stethoscopes, and otoscopes
- File cabinets, storage bins, and shelves for records
Letterhead, envelopes, and business cards
Letterhead, envelopes, business cards, stationery, copy paper, pens, and pencils are considered administrative oce supplies
necessary for the administration of the practice.
68
A medical assistant is coding an oce visit during which the provider reviewed the systems related to a patient's
chief complaint but did not discuss the patient's family or social history. Which of the following procedure codes
should the assistant use for this visit?
-Detailed history
-Comprehensive history
-Problem-focused history
-Expanded problem-focused history
Expanded problem-focused history
An expanded problem-focused history includes the systems related to the chief complaint but does not include a family or
social history.
69
A medical assistant is monitoring an infant patient for microcephaly. Which of the following describes the
anthropometric measurement that the assistant should perform?
-Length
-Weight
-Chest circumference
-Head circumference
Head circumference
Microcephaly refers to an abnormally small head. Therefore, the assistant should measure the infant's head circumference
when monitoring for microcephaly
70
A medical assistant is performing an ear irrigation for an adult patient who has a cerumen impaction. Which of the
following steps should the assistant complete prior to administering the irrigation solution?
-Cool the irrigation solution to 15.6° C (60° F).
-Place the patient in the prone position.
-Pull the pinna of the ear up and back.
-Insert a cotton-tipped applicator into the ear canal.
Pull the pinna of the ear up and back.
The assistant should pull the pinna of the ear up and back to manipulate the external ear canal, allowing the irrigation
solution to circulate through it and drain more easily.
71
A medical assistant is reviewing a patient's recent medical history and notes that she has a healing fracture of the
distal femur. Where on the patient's body should the assistant expect to nd the injury?
-Just above the knee
-Just above the elbow
-Just below the hip
-Just below the shoulder
Just above the knee
The femur is the large bone that connects the hip to the knee. The term distal refers to a point farthest away from the trunk of the body. Therefore, the distal femur would be located just above the knee
72
A medical assistant is caring for a patient who has terminal colorectal cancer with a life expectancy of 6 months.
The patient states, "I don't know if it's time to begin hospice care yet." Which of the following statements should
the assistant make?
-"It's not the right time to talk end-of-life care yet. You still have some time."
-"If you want to begin hospice care, you will need to have your partner approve your decision rst."
-"You will need to create a Do Not Resuscitate Order before making any decision about end-of-life care."
-"Hospice can help manage your pain and comfort during the nal months of your life."
"Hospice can help manage your pain and comfort during the nal months of your life."
This statement by the assistant provides information about hospice care and the services it provides. Providing more
information for the patient is a therapeutic response and gives the patient the ability to inquire for more information if
necessary.
73
A medical assistant is preparing to calculate a patient's heart rate from an EKG tracing. Which of the following
methods should the assistant use for this calculation?
-Calculate the mean rate and divide 1,500 by that rate.
-Count the number of small boxes in two cardiac cycles.
-Divide 1,500 by the number of small boxes between two R waves.
-Count the number of large boxes between the P and T waves.
Divide 1,500 by the number of small boxes between two R waves.
The assistant should use the 1500 method to calculate a full cardiac cycle
74
Which of the following terms refers to the range of fees charged by providers who have similar training and
experience and practice in the same geographical area?
-Usual
-Reasonable
-Customary
-Capitation
Customary
A customary fee is a range of fees charged by providers who have similar training and experience and practice in the same
geographical area.
75
```
A medical assistant is responsible for cleaning the instruments used in a minor surgery. Which of the following is
the first step in this process?
-Sanitization
-Chemical sterilization
-Disinfection
-Autoclave
```
Sanitization
Sanitization is the rst step of cleaning instruments. All instruments that come into contact with a patient's skin should be
sanitized before proceeding with disinfection and sterilization.
76
A medical assistant is preparing to administer a liquid, oral medication to a patient. Which of the following
methods should the assistant use to ensure the correct dose is delivered?
-Pour the medication to the prescribed dose in the medicine cup on a at surface.
-Add slightly more than the prescribed dose to account for the medication adhering to the sides of the cup.
-Pour the medication into the container's lid for easy administration.
-Measure the dose at the top of the meniscus in the medicine cup.
Pour the medication to the prescribed dose in the medicine cup on a at surface.
-The assistant should place the medicine cup on a at surface at eye level and pour the medication to the prescribed dose
mark.
77
A medical assistant is preparing a patient who has anemia for an examination by the provider. Which of the
following manifestations should the assistant expect to nd?
-Irregular heartbeat
-Chest pain
-Itchy skin
-Abdominal pain
Irregular heartbeat
The assistant should recognize that an irregular heartbeat, fatigue, dizziness, and pale skin are manifestations of anemia.
78
A medical assistant must invert anticoagulant tubes to prevent which of the following?
- Hemolysis
- Clotting
- Hemoconcentration
- Reux
Clotting
| The assistant should invert the anticoagulant tubes to prevent clotting.
79
When performing the palpatory method for obtaining blood pressure, which of the following indicates the level at
which the medical assistant should inate the cu?
-30 mm Hg above the radial pulse cessation
-30 mm Hg above the brachial pulse cessation
-30 mm Hg above the reappearance of the radial pulse
-30 mm Hg above the reappearance of the brachial pulse
30 mm Hg above the radial pulse cessation
| The palpatory method requires the assistant to inate the cu 30 mm Hg above the cessation of the radial pulse
80
In which of the following scenarios should a medical assistant choose a CPT modier?
- For special circumstances applied to a procedure performed by the provider
- For an examination performed to diagnose a condition and to determine treatment
- For a follow-up procedure performed by the assistant
- For a routine service performed by the provider for a healthy patient
For special circumstances applied to a procedure performed by the provider
-The assistant should use CPT modiers for procedures performed by the provider that required documentation of special
circumstances.
81
A medical assistant is assisting a provider with an abdominal examination. When the provider palpates the major
portion of the liver, the assistant should recognize that he is palpating which of the following abdominal
quadrants?
-Right upper
-Right lower
-Left upper
-Left lower
Right upper
| The right upper quadrant contains the major portion of the liver. It is also the quadrant that contains the gallbladder.
82
A medical assistant is collecting blood samples to measure a patient's cholesterol levels. Which of the following
actions should the assistant take before collecting the patient's blood?
-Plan to collect the specimen in the late morning.
-Make sure the patient did not eat any -food for the past 12 hr.
-Ask the patient if he has taken any medications that day.
-Ensure that the patient did not drink any water for the past 12 hr.
Make sure the patient did not eat any -food for the past 12 hr.
For some laboratory tests, including cholesterol, glucose, triglycerides, proteins, and electrolytes, the patient should be in a
basal state. This means the assistant should collect the samples when the patient has not had any food for the previous 12 hr.
83
A medical assistant has just received a derogatory e-mail from a dissatised patient. What action should the
assistant take?
-Respond immediately with a request for a more polite message.
-Print a copy of the e-mail and forward it to the provider.
-Print the e-mail and make notes about topics to be addressed prior to formulating a response.
-Forward the e-mail to another medical assistant to review and to provide a response to the patient.
Print the e-mail and make notes about topics to be addressed prior to formulating a response.
The assistant should review the e-mail, making notes of what needs to be addressed, in order to evaluate the patient's
concerns and develop a professional response.
84
Which of the following actions should the medical assistant take when obtaining the head circumference of an
infant?
-Place the infant in a prone position.
-Allow the parent or guardian to obtain the reading if it soothes the infant.
-Record the measurement to the nearest 0.6 cm (1 /4 in).
-Position the measuring tape around the head just below the infant's ears.
Record the measurement to the nearest 0.6 cm (1 /4 in).
| The assistant should record the infant's head circumference to the nearest 0.6 cm ( / in).
85
```
Which of the following routes of administration should a medical assistant use when performing a tuberculin skin
test?
-Intramuscular
-Intradermal
-Intravenous
-Subcutaneous
```
Intradermal
The assistant should use the intradermal route to administer a tuberculin skin test. This route of administration applies the
medication to the epidermal layer of the skin and allows for subsequent evaluation of the reaction to the tuberculin testing
agent.
86
A medical assistant in an emergency clinic is admitting several patients. The assistant should recognize that the
provider should see which of the following patients first?
-An adult who is a professional runner and has a heart rate of 50/min
-An older adult patient who has diabetes and has a blood pressure of 80/42 mm Hg
-An infant who is bottle fed and has a heart rate of 130/min
-An adolescent who is a gymnast and has a blood pressure of 108/64 mm Hg
An older adult patient who has diabetes and has a blood pressure of 80/42 mm Hg
Because this blood pressure reading is low, the assistant should recommend the provider see this patient rst.
87
```
A patient reports feeling depressed due to the recent loss of a partner. In which of the ve stages of the grief
process does depression present itself?
-First
-Second
-Third
-Fourth
```
Fourth
| According to the stages of grief identied by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, depression presents itself in the fourth stage
88
A medical assistant should understand that the chain of custody form is used for which of the following?
- Ensuring that a specimen is handled by only one administrative assistant
- Ensuring that a specimen is packaged as directed
- Ensuring that the patient receives the test results
- Ensuring that the results are sent to the provider
Ensuring that a specimen is packaged as directed
| The chain custody form ensures accurate collection, transportation, and processing of a specimen
89
A medical assistant is reinforcing instructions with a patient about how to take a buccal tablet. Which of the
following instructions should the assistant give the patient?
-"Swallow the tablet whole."
-"Place the tablet under your tongue."
-"Dissolve the tablet in water."
-"Place the tablet between your gums and cheek."
"Place the tablet between your gums and cheek."
The assistant should instruct the patient to place the buccal tablet between his gums and his cheek. A buccal tablet acts faster
than oral tablets because it does not need to pass through the gastrointestinal tract to be absorbed.
90
To provide culturally competent care, which of the following actions should a medical assistant take rst when
encountering patients?
-Learn a few phrases for greeting patients from the predominant cultures in the area.
-Examine personal religious and cultural values and beliefs to identify any biases.
-Prepare contact information for medical interpreters who can assist with communication.
-Plan to use demonstrations to indicate what the patient has to do during the visit
Examine personal religious and cultural values and beliefs to identify any biases.
The first step the assistant should take when providing culturally competent care is to understand his own individual beliefs
and value system.
91
A medical assistant is applying a transdermal patch for a patient. Which of the following actions should the
assistant take?
-Apply the patch to the patient's forearm.
-Apply the patch to a hairless area of the patient's skin.
-Tell the patient not to shower while wearing the patch.
-Tell the patient to apply subsequent patches to the same area.
Apply the patch to a hairless area of the patient's skin.
Body hair can interfere with the distribution of the medication to the skin. The lower abdomen or upper arm are good location
choices for a transdermal patch
92
A medical assistant is writing a piece of professional correspondence to a consulting provider. In which of the
following ways should the assistant record the date on the letter?
-January 1st, 2020
-January 1, 2020
-1st of January, 2020
-01/01/2020
January 1, 2020
93
A medical assistant is performing a review of items in a clinic's inventory. How should the assistant classify
dressings and bandages for inventory purposes?
-As office supplies
-As office equipment
-As clinical supplies
-As clinical equipment
As clinical supplies
The assistant should classify bandages and dressings as clinical supplies. These should be stored in a clean area protected from damage and exposure to the oce environment.
94
A medical assistant receives a denial of payment for a patient's cholecystectomy. The reason stated is "noncovered
service." If this procedure was deemed emergent by the provider, which of the following actions should the
assistant take?
-Submit an appeal for the denied claim.
-Submit a new claim.
-Resubmit the claim with a dierent procedure code.
-Instruct the patient to contact the insurer about the denial of payment
Instruct the patient to contact the insurer about the denial of payment
The assistant serves as an advocate on behalf the patient in terms of treatment and care. In an instance of denial of payment
due to a noncovered service, it is the responsibility of the patient to contact the insurer to discuss any existing disputes
regarding payment.
95
A medical assistant is scheduling a patient for an outpatient procedure. Which of the following actions should the
assistant take rst?
-Obtain prior authorization for the procedure with the patient's insurance company.
-Obtain an oral or written order from the provider for the procedure.
-Call the outpatient facility to inquire about available days and times for the procedure.
-Contact the patient to nd out his availability for the procedure
Obtain an oral or written order from the provider for the procedure.
The assistant must rst obtain an oral or written order for the procedure before taking other actions
96
A patient asks a medical assistant to explain the dierence between a liniment and a medicated lotion. Which of
the following responses should the assistant make?
-"Medicated lotions are used to treat disorders in the muscles and bones."
-"Liniments contain a higher portion of oil than medicated lotions."
-"Liniments are used to control itching."
-"Medicated lotions are emulsions used to protect dried or cracked skin.
"Liniments contain a higher portion of oil than medicated lotions."
The assistant should recognize that liniments are made to contain a higher portion of oil than medicated lotions in order to protect dry and cracked skin.
97
A medical assistant is preparing to dispose of bandages that have been removed from a patient's open wound. Per OSHA guidelines, which of the following actions should the assistant plan to take?
- Place the bandages in a sharps container.
- Place the bandages in a red biohazard bag.
- Double bag the bandages in a red biohazard bag.
- Disinfect the bandages and place them in a red biohazard bag.
Place the bandages in a red biohazard bag.
OSHA requires all biohazardous waste, such as bandages from an open wound, be placed in a red polyethylene or
polypropylene bag that is sealed to prevent leakage.
98
A medical assistant works at an urgent care center that uses open hours scheduling. Which of the following
describes this form of scheduling?
-Three patients are scheduled for the same time and are taken to be seen as they arrive.
-Patients arrive at their convenience and are seen on a first-come, first-served basis.
-Each patient arrives at an assigned time with enough time reserved for the reason of the visit.
-Patients who have the same disorders are seen on a specic day or for a specic block of time during the day or
week.
Patients arrive at their convenience and are seen on a first-come, first-served basis.
This describes open hours scheduling
99
When removing sutures, why is it important for a medical assistant to place the removed sutures on a gauze pad?
- To present to the provider for pathology evaluation
- To maintain the sterility of the sutures
- To help select the procedure code for billing purposes
- To determine the number of sutures removed
To determine the number of sutures removed
The assistant should place removed sutures on a gauze pad and count them to determine the number of sutures removed
and compare it to the number of sutures placed. Sutures that are left in place can cause an infection.
100
A patient tells a medical assistant that his provider's oce is incompetent, as there is no improvement in his
condition. Which of the following is an appropriate response for the assistant to make?
- "I think that you feel that your treatment is not eective."
- "I'm sure that the provider can help you get better."
- "That isn't fair. Our oce treats many patients successfully."
- "You could take a dierent medication and then you'll feel better."
"I think that you feel that your treatment is not effective."
This response validates the patient's feelings. This also allows the assistant to restate the patient's words in order to verify an
understanding of what is being communicated.
101
A medical assistant receives a call from a patient requesting a rell for fentanyl patches for chronic pain. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
- Call the prescription in to the patient's pharmacy.
- Tell the patient to schedule an oce visit.
- Fax the prescription to the patient's pharmacy.
- Refer the patient's request to the provider
Refer the patient's request to the provider
The assistant should recognize fentanyl as a Schedule II drug that requires a written prescription from the provider. The rst
step when reviewing a rell request is to contact the provider.
102
Which of the following actions should a medical assistant take when obtaining the length of an infant during a wellchild visit?
- Remove the infant's diaper.
- Wrap the infant in a blanket for warmth.
- Position the infant on his back.
- Keep the infant's knees exed.
Position the infant on his back.
The assistant should place the infant on his back on an examination table with a paper cover, and then draw a line on the
paper at the infant's head and a line at the heel of the extended legs.
103
A medical assistant is speaking with a patient who recently received a terminal diagnosis. The patient states, "I regret not taking better care of myself. Now, I won't be able to accomplish what I wanted to do with my life." The assistant should identify that the patient is in which of the following stages of grief?
- Anger
- Bargaining
- Depression
- Acceptance
Depression
This patient is in the depression stage of grief. This stage of grief is often characterized by patients expressing
regret over unfullled goals or about not having taken better care of their health.
104
The medical assistant drops an instrument on the floor while setting up a sterile tray for a procedure. He picks up
the instrument and places it back on the sterile field. A few days after the procedure, the patient calls the office,
concerned that the area surrounding the procedure site is infected. Which of the following torts has the assistant
committed?
-Abandonment
-Negligence
-Battery
-Defamation
Negligence
Medical negligence, also known as malpractice, is a tort in which a medical professional did not perform an essential action or
performed an improper one, resulting in harm to a patient. The assistant's failure to maintain a sterile eld was a negligent
act, resulting in the patient's infection.
105
A medical assistant is performing a 12-lead EKG on a patient. Which of the following electrodes should the assistant
place to the left of the sternum at the fourth intercostal space?
V4
V3
V2
V1
V2
| The assistant should place the V2 precordial electrode to the left of the sternum at the fourth intercostal space
106
Which of the following items included on the CMS-1500 claim form should a medical assistant recognize as
indicating the medical necessity of a procedure?
Modier
Diagnosis Code
Charges
Place of Service
Diagnosis Code
The assistant should recognize that a diagnosis code indicates the medical necessity for the performance of a procedure or provided treatment. Without a supported diagnosis, the provider will not receive reimbursement for the procedure.
107
Which of the following cardiac procedures is within a medical assistant's scope of practice and does not require a
licensed technician or provider to assist or perform it?
Cardiac Doppler
Nuclear stress test
Holter monitor application
Angiogram
Holter monitor application
A Holter monitor is a system for recording cardiac activity for 24 hr or longer. It is within an assistant's scope of practice to
place and remove a Holter monitor.
108
A medical assistant is cleaning an examination room after assisting a provider with a biopsy. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
- Place the caps back on the needles to reduce the risk of puncturing the sharps container.
- Break off the tops of any unused ampules and discard the liquid.
- Hold sharps by the blunt end to avoid a needlestick injury.
- Dispose of the sharps container once it is completely full
Hold sharps by the blunt end to avoid a needlestick injury.
| The assistant should hold sharps by the blunt end to avoid an injury.
109
Which of the following instructions should a medical assistant give to a patient when administering an entericcoated tablet?
"Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water."
"Chew the tablet thoroughly before swallowing."
" Dissolve the tablet in a glass of water before drinking."
"Crush the tablet and mix it with applesauce."
"Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water."
Enteric-coated tablets should not be crushed, chewed, or dissolved. The tablets need to arrive in the small intestines whole.
110
A medical assistant requests that a patient pay her insurance copayment at the time she arrives for her appointment. The patient becomes defensive and asks why she should pay for care she has not yet received. Which of the following responses should the medical assistant make?
- "Didn't you expect to have to pay for your visit when you came?"
- "Why wouldn't you want to pay now rather than later?"
- "Unless you have paid your copayment, the doctor will not see you."
- "I understand you're concerned, so you're welcome to pay at the end of your appointment."
"I understand you're concerned, so you're welcome to pay at the end of your appointment."
This response recognizes the patient's feelings and responds to them accordingly. The assistant should strive to keep open
lines of communications with patients who are frustrated or angry. In this response, the assistant continues to express the
need for the patient to pay at the time of service while adjusting these requirements to meet the patient's needs and
responding to her concerns.
111
A medical assistant is cleaning countertops and other surfaces after a surgical procedure in a provider's oce.
Which of the following disinfectants should the assistant use for this purpose?
-A 1:10 bleach and water solution
-Benzalkonium chloride solution
-Chlorhexidine
-Alcohol
A 1:10 bleach and water solution
This combination is the most reliable and cost-eective solution for disinfecting equipment and surfaces. It is especially
eective for surfaces that have come into contact with bodily uids that contain viruses, including HIV.
112
A medical assistant is reinforcing teaching with a patient about pulse oximetry. Which of the following statements should the assistant include in the teaching?
"Cold hands improve the test's accuracy."
"Remove your nail polish before the test."
"Clip the probe onto your second toe."
"This test will measure your pulmonary capacity."
"Remove your nail polish before the test."
There is a light on the oximetry probe that measures a patient's pulse and oxygen saturation. Nail polish can aect the
reading if it interferes with the light.
113
A patient is seen in an urgent care center for a laceration to the left foot. The provider evaluates the injury,
determines sutures are not needed, applies a dressing, and releases the patient. Which of the following levels of
examination should a medical assistant use for the procedural coding for this visit?
-Problem-focused examination
-Expanded problem-focused examination
-Detailed examination
-Comprehensive examination
Problem-focused examination
| Problem-focused examinations are limited to the single body area or system mentioned in the chief complaint
114
```
A medical assistant should insert the needle at which of the following angles during a venipuncture?
15° angle
30° angle
45° angle
90° angle
```
15° angle
115
A medical assistant is collecting a health history from an older adult patient who exhibits moderate hearing loss. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
- Keep her hands still to avoid distracting the patient.
- Speak with a raised pitch when clarifying information.
- Use longer sentences to keep the patient's attention.
- Remain within the patient's view to allow lip-reading
Remain within the patient's view to allow lip-reading
Remaining within the patient's view allows for lip-reading and association of facial expressions with verbal communication.
This technique promotes successful communication with patients who exhibit moderate hearing loss.
116
A medical assistant is transcribing a prescription for magnesium sulfate into a patient's medical record. Which of
the following should the assistant use to document this medication?
MS
MgS04
Magnesium
Magnesium sulfate
Magnesium sulfate
| When transcribing a prescription for magnesium sulfate, the medication name should always be spelled in full
117
A medical assistant notices that the medical oce is not providing personal protective equipment (PPE) for staff.
Which of the following regulatory agencies should the assistant contact?
OSHA
CLIA
The Joint Commission
Department of Health and Human Services
OSHA
| OSHA regulates workplace safety. The assistant should contact OSHA to report a violation regarding PPE
118
```
Which of the following additives should be used when performing a CBC?
SPS
EDTA
Lithium heparin
Sodium citrate
```
EDTA
| EDTA is the proper additive for hematology studies
119
A medical assistant is checking a patient's hearing using the Weber test. Which of the following actions should the
assistant take?
-Position a vibrating tuning fork over the patient's mastoid process.
-Invert a vibrating tuning fork while the patient still hears sound.
-Instruct the patient to raise his hand when he no longer hears any sound.
-Ask the patient if he hears the vibration louder in one ear than the other.
Ask the patient if he hears the vibration louder in one ear than the other.
When performing the Weber test, the assistant should ask the patient if he hears the vibration louder in one ear than the
other. The Weber test is used to determine if a patient's hearing is better in one ear than the other.
120
```
A medical assistant is caring for a patient who has active tuberculosis. Which of the following pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) must be used during the patient's care?
N95 respirator
Gown
Eye protection
Hair cover
```
N95 respirator
The assistant should use airborne precautions, which involves using an N95 respirator, when caring for a patient who has
active tuberculosis.
121
A medical assistant is encouraging a patient to increase her intake of insoluble ber to help prevent constipation
and hemorrhoids. Which of the following foods should the assistant recommend as the best source of insoluble fiber?
Cooked white rice
Pears with skin
Strawberries
Popcorn
Pears with skin
| A medium pear with skin contains 4 g of insoluble ber per serving.
122
```
A medical assistant is classifying services that a patient requires. The assistant should identify which of the following as an ancillary diagnostic service?
Cardiology
Pathology
Oncology
Gerontology
```
Pathology
| Ancillary diagnostic services, such as pathology and radiology, provide conrmation of patient diagnoses.
123
Which of the following pieces of legislation keeps health care sta safe from retaliation by their employers when
they report cases of patient neglect and abuse?
Good Samaritan Act
HITECH Act
Whistleblower Protection Act
Patients' Bill of Rights
Whistleblower Protection Act
The Whistleblower Protection Act protects employees from retaliation when reporting suspected unsafe activities in the
workplace.
124
A patient calls the clinic to cancel a postoperative appointment and states that she will reschedule at a later date.
For which of the following reasons should the medical assistant document this information on the patient's chart?
To prove that the oce was not negligent
To explain the loss of revenue
To deny future appointments
To demonstrate condentiality
To prove that the oce was not negligent
Documenting this information is a legal responsibility and covers the clinic for liability. Because the patient said she would
reschedule, this communication breaks the physician-patient contract and places responsibility for any postoperative care
issues on the patient, not the provider.
125
A medical assistant is entering patient data into an electronic medical record (EMR) system. Which of the following
information should be entered into the Patient Demographics section of the EMR?
Allergies
Chief complaint
Occupation
Surgical history
Occupation
| A patient's occupation is demographic information
126
A patient who has vulvovaginal candidiasis asks a medical assistant for more information about her infection. The
assistant should begin by explaining that candidiasis is which of the following types of infections?
Fungal
Bacterial
Protozoan
Helminthic
Fungal
| The assistant should recognize that candidiasis is a type of fungal infection.
127
```
A medical assistant is scheduling diagnostic tests for a patient's liver and pancreas. Which of the following systems
is being assessed?
Cardiovascular
Integumentary
Respiratory
Digestive
```
Digestive
The liver and pancreas are both accessory organs to the digestive system. Performing diagnostic tests on these organs
provides assessment data about the digestive system.
128
Which of the following is a medical assistant's role in pulmonary function testing (PFT)?
Coach the patient through the test.
Check the patient's vital signs during the test to ensure stability.
Administer the proper medication prior to the test.
Instruct the patient in the use of the inhaler used in testing.
Coach the patient through the test.
| The role of the assistant is to coach and encourage the patient during the test
129
Which of the following is a step in the process of skin preparation prior to a surgical procedure?
Sterilize the surgical site.
Clean the surgical site with antiseptic.
Rinse the surgical site with warm water.
Scrub the surgical site with a sterile brush
Clean the surgical site with antiseptic.
The assistant should clean the site with antiseptic to decrease the number of micro-organisms on the skin and reduce the risk
of wound contamination.
130
```
Which of the following is a formal authorization that identies an individual as legally able to make decisions on
behalf of a patient?
Physician-patient contract
Do not resuscitate order (DNR)
Uniform donor card
Durable power of attorney
```
Durable power of attorney
The durable power of attorney is an authorization made by the patient that allows another person to make medical decision
on behalf of the patient if she is unable to make the decisions for herself. This is also known as a health care proxy.
131
```
A medical assistant is observing a patient after administering an antibiotic injection. The patient develops an itchy rash with pinkish, raised lesions. Which of the following terms should the assistant use when documenting this finding in the patient's medical record?
Anaphylaxis
Urticaria
Rhinitis
Erythema
```
Urticaria
132
When should the code on glucose cuvettes be compared to the code on the glucometer?
- After a new package of cuvettes is opened
- Before a patient is tested
- At the beginning of the shift
- Following an error code
Before a patient is tested
133
```
Which of the following should a medical assistant identify as the purpose of a Category II code in procedural
coding?
-Indicates special circumstances
-Works as a temporary code
-Tracks provider performance measures
-Identies preventive measures
```
Tracks provider performance measures
134
```
A pulse oximeter can register an articially low oxygen saturation measurement for a patient who has which of the
following conditions?
-Cold fingers
-Hyperventilation syndrome
-Carbon monoxide poisoning
-Anemia
```
Cold fingers
135
As a medical assistant is collecting a blood sample, the patient begins to faint. Which of the following actions should the medical assistant take to help ensure the patient's safety?
- Position the patient at on her back.
- Use an ammonia capsule to revive the patient.
- Apply a warm cloth to the patient's forehead.
- Have the patient remain in the oce for 5 min.
Position the patient at on her back.
136
A medical assistant is performing spirometry testing for a patient who has shortness of breath. Which of the following results of the spirometry test indicates a successful maneuver?
- A slow and progressive start
- A fast and steady ow with no variability
- An exhalation of 3 seconds
- Light coughing during the test
A fast and steady ow with no variability
137
```
A medical assistant is collecting data from a patient who is experiencing heatstroke. Which of the following manifestations should the assistant expect to find?
Hot skin
Bradycardia
Excessive sweating
Slow breathing
```
Hot skin
138
A medical assistant is administering eye ointment to a patient. Which of the following actions should the assistant
take?
-Hold the ointment tube parallel to and above the patient's eye.
-Apply a thin ribbon of ointment along the conjunctival sac.
-Apply the ointment from the outer canthus to the inner canthus.
-Have the patient keep her eye open after application.
Apply a thin ribbon of ointment along the conjunctival sac.
139
A medical assistant is reinforcing teaching with a patient about lifestyle modications to help regulate his hypertension. Which of the following statements by the patient indicates an understanding of the teaching?
- "I'll cut back my salt intake to 4 grams per day."
- "I'll watch my potassium intake and keep it low."
- "I'll restrict my exercise regimen to only 2 days per week."
- "I only smoke a half a pack each day, so I'll just cut it out completely."
"I only smoke a half a pack each day, so I'll just cut it out completely."
140
A medical assistant is reviewing a provider's instructions as the patient is preparing to leave the oce. The provider recommends that the patient purchase an over-the-counter antitussive, but the patient tells the assistant that she does not know what an antitussive is. Which of the following responses should the assistant make?
- "It is a medication that reduces nasal membrane swelling."
- "It is a medication that helps with coughing up mucus."
- "It is a medication that relieves allergy symptoms."
- "It is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex."
"It is a medication that relieves allergy symptoms."
| -"It is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex."
141
```
According to OSHA guidelines, a medical assistant should dispose of blood-soiled gauze dressings in which of the
following?
-Red biohazard bag
-Sharps container
-Trash can with clear leak-proof liner
-Purple medical waste container
```
Red biohazard bag
142
Which of the following information should the medical assistant enter into the appointment calendar when scheduling a patient for a skin rash?
- Diagnosis code for dermatitis
- Daytime phone number
- Date of birth
- Patient's identication number
Daytime phone number
143
A medical assistant has requested a preauthorization for a patient's referral to a specialist. Which of the following is a reason for the claim submitted by the specialist to be denied?
- The approved visits are listed in the authorization comments section.
- The patient previously submitted and received a self-referral.
- The specialty provider's national provider identier (NPI) is not included in the authorization.
- The service is provided after the expiration date.
The service is provided after the expiration date.
144
A medical assistant is disposing of the syringe and needle she used to inject a seasonal inuenza vaccine. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
- Recap the needle before disposing of it in the biohazardous sharps container.
- Use a gauze square to break o the needle and place it in the biohazardous sharps container.
- Drop the syringe, needle rst, into the biohazardous sharps container.
- Replace the biohazardous sharps container once it is half full.
Drop the syringe, needle rst, into the biohazardous sharps container.
145
When preparing a patient for Holter monitoring, which of the following actions should a medical assistant take?
- Vigorously dry the patient's skin prior to electrode placement.
- Apply the electrodes while the patient is in a standing position.
- Ensure tension is on the lead wires after electrodes are in place.
- Wash the patient's skin with soap and water prior to electrode placement
Vigorously dry the patient's skin prior to electrode placement.
146
A medical assistant is preparing a patient who has psoriasis to be examined by the provider. When inspecting the patient's skin lesions, the assistant should expect to observe which of the following characteristics?
- Yellow, waxy
- Gray, crusty
- Silvery, scaly
- Brown, at
Silvery, scaly
147
A medical assistant is preparing a patient for a physical examination. Which of the following steps should the assistant take rst?
- Give the patient a paper gown.
- Verify the patient's identity.
- Record the patient's vital signs.
- Assist the patient into Fowler's position.
Verify the patient's identity.
148
Which of the following types of written correspondence can be signed by a medical assistant?
- A medical report for an insurance carrier
- A referral letter for a patient to an outside provider
- A letter containing medical advice to the parents of a child
- A notication letter to a patient about surgery arrangements
A notication letter to a patient about surgery arrangements
149
A medical assistant is administering an intramuscular immunization to a patient. Which of the following actions should the medical assistant take?
- Select the patient's forearm as the site of injection.
- Cleanse the site in a circular motion from the center outward.
- Cleanse the site with povidone-iodine solution.
- Hold the needle and syringe at a 45° angle to the skin
Cleanse the site in a circular motion from the center outward.
150
Which of the following methods is used to notify a provider of the denial of a claim by an insurancem carrier?
- Remittance advice
- Coordination of benets
- Eligibility for insurance
- CMS-1500 claim form
Remittance advice
151
When assigning a CPT code, which of the following is the purpose of a modier?
- Indicates the complexity of the medical history that led to the procedure
- Indicates the amount of time the provider has spent on the procedure
- Provides the clinical setting in which the procedure was performed
- Provides additional information or circumstances for a procedure
Provides additional information or circumstances for a procedure
152
Which of the following instructions should a medical assistant provide to a patient regarding transdermal patch
use and care?
-"Only sponge baths are allowed while wearing the patch."
-"Make sure to rotate patch placement to avoid skin irritation."
-"Keep all used patches for inspection at your next appointment."
-"Apply each new patch at a dierent time during the day."
"Make sure to rotate patch placement to avoid skin irritation."
153
```
A medical assistant is reviewing the progress notes of a patient's record that uses the SOAP format. Which of the following would the medical assistant nd in the assessment section?
Family history
Laboratory results
Chief complaint
Diagnosis
```
Diagnosis
154
A medical assistant discovers a garbage can re has started in the break room of the medical offiice. According to the RACE acronym for emergency response, which of the following actions should the assistant take first?
- Close the doors and windows.
- Turn off the oxygen in the adjacent examination rooms.
- Use the office fire extinguisher.
- Evacuate sta and patients from the immediate area
Evacuate sta and patients from the immediate area
155
When performing a rst aid procedure to control bleeding of a wound, which of the following actions should a medical assistant take?
- Apply layers of sterile gauze.
- Sterilize her hands.
- Suture the wound.
- Flush the wound with sterile water
Apply layers of sterile gauze
156
A medical assistant is drawing ve blood collection tubes. When should the assistant release the tourniquet?
- After the needle is removed
- After a ash of blood is seen in the hub of the rst tube
- Within 1 min of application
- Between 2 and 3 min after application
Within 1 min of application
157
A rst-time patient is late arriving to the oce. Which of the following should the medical assistant say rst?
- "Have a seat. We will be with you shortly."
- "Hello. Welcome to our office."
- "What is your best phone number? We couldn't reach you this morning."
- "Please complete these forms and return them to the desk."
"Hello. Welcome to our office."
158
```
A medical assistant is collecting multiple blood samples from a patient. Which of the following vacuum tubes
should the assistant ll rst?
Light blue (sodium citrate)
Green (heparin)
Gray (sodium uoride)
Yellow (blood culture)
```
Yellow (blood culture)
159
A patient contacts the facility to report a burn injury to her right arm. A medical assistant should identify which of
the following pieces of information as necessary when screening for a possible emergency situation?
-The cause of the patient's burn
-The patient's location when the burn occurred
-The date of the patient's most recent tetanus immunization
-The patient's current insurance benets
The cause of the patient's burn
160
```
A patient loses consciousness. The EKG tracing reveals ventricular brillation. Which of the following actions should
a medical assistant take rst?
Notify the provider of the arrest.
Call for help and begin CPR.
Get the automated external debrillator.
Administer oxygen.
```
Call for help and begin CPR.
161
Which of the following techniques should a medical assistant use when bandaging a wound?
- Wrap the wound from distal to proximal.
- Bandage fingers and toes to prevent further injury.
- Extend the wound dressing 3 to 5 inches beyond the bandage.
- Moisten and apply ointment before bandaging.
Wrap the wound from distal to proximal.
162
A medical assistant is caring for a patient who has come in contact with concrete debris. Upon inspection of the eye, the assistant sees debris on the surface of the sclera. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
- Use a clean, dry piece of gauze to sweep the debris out of the eye.
- Position a bulb syringe on the lid of the eye during extraction.
- Irrigate the eye starting at the inner canthus and owing to the outer canthus.
- Irrigate the eye by ushing it with cold tap water.
Irrigate the eye starting at the inner canthus and owing to the outer canthus.
163
Which of the following techniques should a medical assistant use to conrm a patient's understanding of insulin administration?
- Observe the patient as she performs a self-demonstration.
- Provide the patient with written instructions.
- Offer the patient a website to visit for directions.
- Repeat the instructions to the patient
Observe the patient as she performs a self-demonstration.
164
A medical assistant is providing instruction to a patient on how to take an extended-release medication PO. Which
of the following statements made by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?
"I can crush or chew the pill if it is too hard for me to swallow."
"I should drink plenty of water when taking the extended-release pill."
"Extended-release pills provide a consistent amount of medication for my body to use over a period of time."
"I should take my pill at the same time each day."
"I can crush or chew the pill if it is too hard for me to swallow."
165
A medical assistant has a blood pressure cu inated and partially opens the valve to deate as he listens with a stethoscope. When should he read the diastolic pressure?
When the sound disappears
When repetitive sounds begin
When the sounds change from strong to mued
When the sounds change from swishing to sharp
When the sound disappears
166
A medical assistant is preparing a patient who has intermittent peripheral cyanosis for an examination by the provider. The assistant should understand that healthy perfusion of the hands and feet depends on adequate interaction between which of the following two body systems?
- Muscular and digestive
- Integumentary and lymphatic
- Endocrine and skeletal
- Circulatory and respiratory
Circulatory and respiratory
167
A medical assistant is preparing a CMS-1500 insurance claim form for a patient who was treated for a burn injury. Which of the following pieces of information is required on the form?
- Physical address where the injury occurred
- Patient's health savings account number
- Current procedural terminology code
- Patient's medical record number
Current procedural terminology code
168
```
The parent of a child who has pinworms is asking a medical assistant for more information about his child's condition. The assistant should begin by explaining that pinworms are which of the following types of microorganism?
Fungi
Bacteria
Protozoa
Helminths
```
Helminths
169
A medical assistant is collecting a urine specimen from a patient for a drug screening. Which of the following actions should the assistant take to adhere to the chain of custody for this specimen?
- Ensure the specimen has a volume of 20 mL.
- Record the specimen's temperature 8 min after collection.
- Send the specimen to the testing laboratory on the same day as the collection.
- Ask the provider to supervise the collection and shipment of the specimen
Send the specimen to the testing laboratory on the same day as the collection.
170
```
Which of the following cell structures is the source of energy for a cell?
Endoplasmic reticulum
Ribosomes
Golgi apparatus
Mitochondria
```
Mitochondria
171
A pharmacist calls the clinic to conrm an e-prescription request to ll a patient's medication order. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
- Verbally authorize the e-prescription after conrming the order with another medical assistant.
- Authorize the e-prescription to last until the patient's next appointment.
- Verify the order with the provider prior to conrming the e-prescription.
- Contact the patient for verication of the e-prescription
Verify the order with the provider prior to conrming the e-prescription
172
A medical assistant is measuring a patient's blood pressure with an aneroid sphygmomanometer and a
stethoscope. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
- Make sure the midpoint of the patient's arm is at the level of the patient's heart.
- Use a cuff whose bladder encircles only 60% of the patient's upper arm.
- Make sure the lower edge of the cu is 1.3 cm (0.5 in) above the antecubital space.
- Wrap the cu loosely around the patient's arm.
Make sure the midpoint of the patient's arm is at the level of the patient's heart.
173
```
Which of the following routes for taking a patient's temperature is the most accurate?
Axillary
Rectal
Oral
Temporal
```
Rectal
174
A provider asks a medical assistant to administer oxygen to a patient who is experiencing respiratory distress. Which of the following actions should the medical assistant take when administering oxygen to the patient?
- Open the cylinder on the tank two clockwise turns.
- Set the ow meter to 8 L/min.
- Insert the tips of the cannula into the patient's nostrils.
- Instruct the patient to open a window when smoking.
Insert the tips of the cannula into the patient's nostrils.
175
Which of the following actions should the medical assistant take to safeguard a patient's protected health
information?
-Record the reason for the visit on the sign-in sheet.
-Discuss patient information quietly with a provider in the hallway.
-Log off of computers when not in use.
-Store paper charts on an open shelf at the front desk
Log off of computers when not in use.
176
A medical assistant receives a telephone call from a patient who seems anxious about the results of a test. Which of the following responses should the assistant make?
"The doctor is busy right now and will call you back. You don't really want me to give you the results, do you?"
"I'm afraid it's bad news. I would get a second opinion if I were you."
"Don't worry about it. Until we say you have something to worry about, try to relax."
"I know you are concerned about your test results. We'll call you as soon as your results come in."
I know you are concerned about your test results. We'll call you as soon as your results come in."
177
A medical assistant is composing business correspondence using the simplied letter style. Which of the following features should the assistant use?
A complimentary closing
A subject line in all capital letters
Indented paragraphs in the body of the letter
Center aligned dateline and salutation
A subject line in all capital letters
178
```
Which of the following body systems should be evaluated for a diagnosis of pyloric stenosis?
Urinary
Gastrointestinal
Nervous
Cardiovascular
```
Gastrointestinal
179
A medical assistant is explaining a venipuncture procedure to a patient. Which of the following statements should
the assistant make?
"I'll be collecting a blood sample from you today. There will be a small stick in your arm."
"I'm here to draw a blood sample for a test. It won't hurt at all."
"I'll be puncturing your vein with this needle. Hopefully, you won't feel the vacuum in the tube draw your blood."
"I'm going to draw a blood sample. I'm sure that you aren't going to faint.
"I'll be collecting a blood sample from you today. There will be a small stick in your arm."
180
A medical assistant is preparing to apply ointment to several abrasions on a patient's leg. Which of the following
supplies should the medical assistant use to remove the medication from the jar?
A gloved nger
A syringe
A cotton ball
A tongue blade
A tongue blade
181
A medical assistant is measuring the vital signs of an adult patient. The assistant should identify which of the
following blood pressure readings as stage 2 hypertension?
110/80 mm Hg
135/80 mm Hg
150/95 mm Hg
120/85 mm Hg
150/95 mm Hg
182
```
A medical assistant is speaking with a patient who has seasonal allergies. Which of the following health care providers should the assistant identify as being able to make a diagnosis and initiate the necessary treatment?
Pharmacist
Physician assistant
Respiratory therapist
Registered nurse
```
Physician assistant
183
A medical assistant is reviewing a Medicare claim denial. The assistant determines that there are charges that exceed the usual, customary, and reasonable fees. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
- Leave the unpaid balance on the record until the end of the revenue cycle.
- Wait until an overpayment of the approximate amount balances the decit.
- Adjust the patient's account to reect no unpaid charges and write o the balance.
- Request payment at the point of service during the patient's next visit.
Adjust the patient's account to reect no unpaid charges and write o the balance.
184
A medical assistant is reviewing discharge information with a patient who is postoperative following cryosurgery to
the cervix. Which of the following statements should the assistant include?
"You can resume sexual activity 3 days after your procedure."
"It is normal for pain to last for up to 1 week after your procedure."
"Your menstrual cycle will cease for 3 to 4 months following the procedure."
"You may experience a watery discharge for up to 1 week after your procedure."
"You may experience a watery discharge for up to 1 week after your procedure."
185
A patient arrives at the clinic with a tick bite on his leg. The provider asks a medical assistant to help remove the tick. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
- Grasp the tick at a point furthest from the skin.
- Squeeze the body of the tick rmly to remove it.
- Use tweezers to pull the tick away from the skin slowly.
- Discard the tick in the trash can.
Use tweezers to pull the tick away from the skin slowly.
186
A medical assistant is making a new sign-in sheet for the patients who have appointments that day. Which of the following information should the sign-in sheet include?
- Insurance policy number
- Provider's name
- Patient's date of birth
- Reason for the visit
Provider's name
187
```
A medial assistant is caring for a patient who has a body mass index (BMI) of 23. This patient should be categorized as which of the following?
Obese
Underweight
Normal weight
Overweight
```
Normal weight
188
A medical assistant is asked to assist a provider with an orthopedic examination. Which of the following
instruments should the assistant prepare for the examination?
Goniometer
Hemostat
Retractor
Tonometer
Goniometer
189
When speaking with a patient who has moderate hearing loss and reads lips, which of the following actions should
a medical assistant take to aid in communication with the patient?
Use hand gestures
Speak loudly
Speak slowly
Overenunciate words
Use hand gestures
190
```
A medical assistant is reviewing the medical history of a patient who regularly comes into contact with coal and wood dust. The assistant should recognize that this patient is at an increased risk for developing which of the
following disorders?
Obstructive sleep apnea
Emphysema
Atelectasis
Carcinoma of the larynx
```
Emphysema
191
A medical assistant is preparing a patient for a procedure to have a mole excised. Which of the following actions
should the assistant take?
-Administer the anesthetic to the patient.
-Don sterile gloves and gown.
-Cleanse the site with surgical soap and an antiseptic.
-Open a sterile pack and lay instruments on the counter.
Cleanse the site with surgical soap and an antiseptic
192
A medical assistant is measuring the circumference of an infant's head. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
Position the infant prone on the examination table
Place the measuring tape so it covers the infant's ears.
Place the zero mark of the measuring tape against the infant's forehead
Mark the measuring tape and record the measurement after the visit
Place the zero mark of the measuring tape against the infant's forehead
193
A medical assistant needs to remove all living micro-organisms from a contaminated towel clamp. Which of the
following methods should the assistant use to cleanse this instrument?
Disinfection
Sanitization
Sterilization
Ultrasoni
Sterilization
194
When informed consent is required for a procedure, which of the following steps should occur prior to the patient
signing the form?
The medical assistant should explain the procedure to the patient.
The medical assistant should describe the risks of the procedure to the patient.
The provider should review alternative procedures with the patient.
The provider should review the patient's insurance coverage for the procedure.
The provider should review alternative procedures with the patient.
195
A medical assistant is assisting with the examination of an older adult patient who has a curvature of the thoracic
spine. Which of the following terms should the assistant use when documenting this nding in the patient's
medical record?
Lordosis
Subluxation
Kyphosis
Scoliosis
Kyphosis
196
A medical assistant is educating an older adult patient on wound care. Which of the following should the assistant
do to ensure patient understanding?
Speak louder to the patient.
Stand beside the patient.
Have additional medical sta present to explain information.
Have the patient repeat information.
Have the patient repeat information.
197
A patient requests a female provider to perform her examination due to a religious conviction. A female provider is
not available. Which of the following is the appropriate response by the medical assistant?
Decline treatment of the patient.
Assist the patient in locating a provider to accommodate the patient's needs.
Reassure the patient that the male provider will be respectful.
Instruct the patient to visit an emergency room.
Assist the patient in locating a provider to accommodate the patient's needs.
198
A medical assistant is checking a patient out of the clinic. In which of the following documents should the assistant
locate information about provider referrals or follow-up appointment requests for the patient?
Encounter form
CMS-1500 claim form
OSHA form 301
Informed consent
Encounter form
199
Which of the following steps for a fingerstick should a medical assistant complete first?
Cleanse the site with an antiseptic wipe.
Select the appropriate part of the third or fourth nger.
Position the blade of the lancet across the lines of the fingertip.
Confirm the correct identity of the patient
Confirm the correct identity of the patient
200
A medical assistant receives a call from a patient who is irate about a letter she received from her insurance carrier
denying a claim. Which of the following statements should the assistant make?
"That's not our fault. Your insurance company has several rules about what they cover and don't cover."
"I don't take care of those matters. You'll have to call our billing department."
"That kind of thing eventually happens to everyone. If the balance isn't that large, it's better to just pay it than try
to ght with them."
"Let's see if there is something we can do at our end. I'll ask our claims specialist to review the claim."
"Let's see if there is something we can do at our end. I'll ask our claims specialist to review the claim."
201
The provider orders the medical assistant to prepare a tablespoon of medication for a patient. How many milliliters
of medication should the assistant draw up?
15 mL
5 mL
30 mL
2.5 mL
15 mL
202
Which of the following techniques should a medical assistant use to put a 7-year-old child at ease prior to
administering an injection?
Show the child the needle that will be used for the procedure.
Use medical terminology when discussing the procedure with the child.
Tell the child that the procedure will not hurt.
Explain the procedure to the child in simple steps.
Explain the procedure to the child in simple steps.
203
The parent of a child who has pediculosis is asking a medical assistant for more information about her child's
condition. The assistant should begin by explaining that pediculosis is which of the following types of infection?
Fungal
Bacterial
Parasitic
Helminthic
Parasitic
204
When assisting a provider with a vaginal examination and Papanicolaou (Pap) test, a medical assistant should
identify that which of the following instruments is necessary?
Cytobrush
205
Which of the following medical record documentation templates is organized by the entity that supplied the data?
Source-oriented
206
In which of the following positions should a medical assistant place an 18-month-old patient when administering
ear drops to the right ear?
Right ear facing up with the earlobe pulled down and back.
207
A medical assistant is examining the skin on a patient's forearm where the patient reports developing a rash. The assistant notes multiple solid elevations that are less than 0.5 cm (0.2 in) in diameter. Which of the following terms
should he use to document his observations in the patient's medical record?
Papules
Macules
Vesicles
Pustules
Papules
208
A medical assistant is preparing 1 g/kg of activated charcoal for a patient who weighs 176 lb. How many grams of
charcoal should the assistant prepare?
79 g
209
A medical assistant is preparing a patient for a physical examination when he notices that the patient's eyes are
moving back and forth in a constant, involuntary manner. Which of the following terms should the assistant use
when documenting this nding in the patient's medical record?
Nystagmus
210
A patient at an urgent care facility reports that she vomited and saw blood in the vomitus. Which of the following
terms should a medical assistant use to document the patient's report?
Hematemesis
211
A medical assistant is monitoring a patient during a stress test. The patient becomes increasingly short of breath and tachycardic. Abnormalities appear in his EKG rhythm. Which of the following actions should the assistant take first?
Discontinue the test.
212
A medical assistant is reviewing the laboratory results of a patient who has the Epstein-Barr virus. The assistant
should identify that this micro-organism can cause which of the following conditions?
Mononucleosis
213
A medical assistant is obtaining information for a patient's medical history and physical examination. The patient
reports intermittent episodes of ringing in his ears. Which of the following terms should the assistant use when
documenting this nding in the patient's medical record?
Tinnitus
214
Which of the following EKG artifacts is caused by a disconnected electrode and results in the tracing going into the
margins of the paper?
Interrupted baseline
215
A patient is entitled to which of the following medical records?
List of medications with diagnosis
216
A medical assistant is discussing information with a patient about a new medication that the provider prescribed.
Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
Reinforce teaching about the frequency of medication administration.
217
A medical assistant should follow chain of custody guidelines for which of the following types of laboratory results?
Parentage testing
218
A medical assistant is preparing a patient for a physical examination and is helping the patient into the dorsal
recumbent position. The assistant should identify that this position is described by which of the following?
Lying face up, with the legs bent and feet at on the table
219
A medical assistant is reviewing the list of medications a patient reports currently taking. The assistant should
recognize that which of the following medications is available in a sublingual form?
Nitroglycerin
220
When unloading an autoclave machine, a medical assistant notices spots on the instruments. The assistant should
recognize that this is a result of which of the following?
Mineral deposits from tap water
221
A medical assistant is preparing to draw venous blood samples. The assistant is required by OSHA regulations to
wear which of the following pieces of personal protective equipment while performing this procedure?
Gloves
