Basic Medical Assistants (Ma) Practice Quiz
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Questions and Answers
- 1.
A patient who refuses medical care walks out without signing a refusal form. Which of the following actions should the MA take?
- A.
Chart it in the medical record.
- B.
Call the patient back into the office to sign the form.
- C.
Mail the form to the patient.
- D.
Call security and inform the provider.
Correct Answer
A. Chart it in the medical record.Explanation
When a patient refuses medical care and leaves without signing a refusal form, it is important for the medical assistant to document this in the patient's medical record. Charting it in the medical record ensures that there is a record of the patient's refusal and can serve as evidence in case of any future legal or administrative issues. Calling the patient back into the office or mailing the form to the patient may not be necessary if the refusal has already been documented. Calling security and informing the provider may be excessive and unnecessary in this situation.Rate this question:
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- 2.
An MA is to locate a code for a documented procedure performed in an office. Which of the following forms should the MA check?
- A.
Laboratory requisition
- B.
Physician assessment
- C.
Progress notes
- D.
Discharge summary
Correct Answer
C. Progress notesExplanation
The MA should check the progress notes to locate a code for a documented procedure performed in an office. Progress notes typically contain detailed information about the patient's visit, including any procedures performed. This documentation is crucial for accurate coding and billing purposes. The laboratory requisition, physician assessment, and discharge summary may contain relevant information, but the progress notes are most likely to have the specific details needed to find the appropriate code.Rate this question:
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- 3.
An MA is caring for a patient who has an accumulation of blood in his chest cavity. The MA should recognize that which of the following terms refers to this condition?
- A.
Hematuria
- B.
Hematoma
- C.
Hemothorax
- D.
Hemoglobin
Correct Answer
C. HemothoraxExplanation
A hemothorax refers to the accumulation of blood in the chest cavity. This condition can occur as a result of trauma or injury to the chest, such as a puncture wound or a fractured rib. It can also be caused by medical procedures or conditions that affect the blood vessels or organs in the chest. Symptoms of a hemothorax may include chest pain, difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, and decreased blood pressure. Treatment typically involves draining the blood from the chest cavity and addressing the underlying cause of the bleeding.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Anthropometric measurement is used for which of the following?
- A.
To complete growth charts
- B.
To determine the dosage for medications
- C.
To determine if the patient is hypertensive
- D.
To assess the lung volume
Correct Answer
D. To assess the lung volumeExplanation
Anthropometric measurement involves assessing various physical characteristics of the body, such as height, weight, and body proportions. These measurements are used to evaluate lung volume indirectly by estimating the size and capacity of the thoracic cavity. By understanding the dimensions of the body, healthcare professionals can make predictions about lung capacity and function, which is important in diagnosing and monitoring respiratory conditions.Rate this question:
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- 5.
When collecting a urine culture, which of the following should an MA include on the label?
- A.
Physician's name and phone number
- B.
Office name and address
- C.
Test name and address
- D.
Patient's name and date of birth.
Correct Answer
D. Patient's name and date of birth.Explanation
When collecting a urine culture, it is important for an MA to include the patient's name and date of birth on the label. This information is crucial for accurate identification and matching of the urine sample with the patient's medical records. The physician's name and phone number, office name and address, and test name and address are not necessary for the labeling of a urine culture sample.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which of the following government agencies enforces safety conditions in the medical office?
- A.
CLIA
- B.
OSHA
- C.
DOH
- D.
FDA
Correct Answer
B. OSHAExplanation
OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, is the government agency responsible for enforcing safety conditions in the medical office. OSHA sets and enforces standards to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for employees. They provide guidelines and regulations for medical facilities to follow, including protocols for handling hazardous materials, preventing workplace injuries, and ensuring proper sanitation. OSHA conducts inspections, investigates complaints, and imposes penalties for non-compliance with safety regulations.Rate this question:
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- 7.
If a male patient is diaphoretic, the MA should do which of the following?
- A.
Dry the patient's chest before applying the electrodes.
- B.
.Shave the patient's chest before applying the electrodes
- C.
Apply the electrodes to an alternate site on the chest.
- D.
Apply the electrodes to the lower abdomen.
Correct Answer
A. Dry the patient's chest before applying the electrodes.Explanation
When a patient is diaphoretic, it means that they are experiencing excessive sweating. In this case, it is important to dry the patient's chest before applying the electrodes because moisture can interfere with the proper adhesion of the electrodes to the skin. By drying the chest, the electrodes can adhere properly, ensuring accurate readings during the procedure. Shaving the patient's chest or applying the electrodes to an alternate site on the chest or the lower abdomen are not necessary or relevant actions in this situation.Rate this question:
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- 8.
A provider orders a urine C&S. Which of the following collection techniques should the MA use?
- A.
First morning specimen
- B.
Clean catch specimen
- C.
24-hour specimen
- D.
Random specimen
Correct Answer
B. Clean catch specimenExplanation
The provider orders a urine C&S, which stands for culture and sensitivity. This test is used to identify and determine the antibiotic sensitivity of microorganisms in the urine. To ensure accurate results, a clean catch specimen should be used. This technique involves cleaning the genital area before collecting the urine midstream, which helps to minimize contamination from the surrounding area. Using a clean catch specimen reduces the risk of false positive or false negative results, making it the appropriate collection technique for a urine C&S.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following criteria are used to determine BMI?
- A.
Height and weight
- B.
Height and age
- C.
Weight and activity level
- D.
Weight and gender
Correct Answer
A. Height and weightExplanation
BMI, or Body Mass Index, is a measure used to determine if a person has a healthy body weight in relation to their height. It is calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters. Therefore, the criteria used to determine BMI are height and weight. Age, activity level, and gender are not factors considered in the calculation of BMI.Rate this question:
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- 10.
An MA is instructing a patient on how to collect a C&S stool specimen. Which of the following is a correct part of the explanation?
- A.
"Retrieve 2 centimeters of stool specimen from the toilet."
- B.
"Chill the stool specimen in a container."
- C.
"Avoid urinating in the stool specimen collection container."
- D.
"Collect the stool specimen in the morning."
Correct Answer
C. "Avoid urinating in the stool specimen collection container."Explanation
The correct part of the explanation is to "Avoid urinating in the stool specimen collection container." This is important because urine can contaminate the stool specimen and affect the accuracy of the culture and sensitivity (C&S) test. Urine contains different bacteria and can interfere with the identification of the bacteria causing the infection. Therefore, it is crucial to collect a clean stool specimen without any urine contamination for an accurate C&S test.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which of the following is required when general practitioner sends a patient to a specialist?
- A.
Method of referral
- B.
Insurance number
- C.
Family history
- D.
Diagnosis codes
Correct Answer
A. Method of referralExplanation
When a general practitioner sends a patient to a specialist, the method of referral is required. This is because the method of referral determines the process and communication between the general practitioner and the specialist. It includes information such as the reason for referral, any specific tests or procedures that need to be done, and any relevant medical history. The method of referral ensures that the specialist has all the necessary information to provide appropriate care for the patient.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which of the following is the correct position for obtaining a rectal temperature?
- A.
Knee chest
- B.
Sim's
- C.
Lithotomy
- D.
Fowler's
Correct Answer
B. Sim'sExplanation
Sim's position is the correct position for obtaining a rectal temperature. In the Sim's position, the patient lies on their left side with the right knee flexed towards the chest. This position allows for easier access to the rectum and ensures accurate measurement of the body temperature. The other positions listed, such as knee chest, lithotomy, and Fowler's, are not appropriate for obtaining a rectal temperature.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A patient tells a dermatologist that she has a mole that has grown rapidly in the past month. Which of the following should the MA record in the patient's chart regarding the growth of the mole?
- A.
Polyp
- B.
Metastasis
- C.
Atrophy
- D.
Melasma
Correct Answer
B. MetastasisExplanation
The term "metastasis" refers to the spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. In the context of the given question, the patient's description of a mole that has grown rapidly in a short period of time could be concerning for melanoma, a type of skin cancer that can metastasize. Therefore, it is important for the medical assistant to record this information in the patient's chart to alert the dermatologist and ensure appropriate evaluation and management.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following is part of the correct procedure when collecting a capillary specimen?
- A.
After the site has been punctured, allow for capillary refill, and collect the specimen.
- B.
Before the site has been punctured, apply a cool pack, and collect the specimen.
- C.
After the site has been punctured, wipe away the first drop of blood, and collect the specimen.
- D.
Before the site has been punctured, massage the site for proper collection.
Correct Answer
C. After the site has been punctured, wipe away the first drop of blood, and collect the specimen.Explanation
After the site has been punctured, it is important to wipe away the first drop of blood before collecting the specimen. This is because the first drop of blood may contain tissue fluids or contaminants that can affect the accuracy of the test results. By wiping away the first drop, we ensure that the specimen collected is pure and representative of the patient's blood. The other options mentioned in the question are incorrect procedures and should not be followed when collecting a capillary specimen.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Quality control testing of a glucometer is important for which of the following reasons?
- A.
Promotes accurate test results
- B.
Contributes to meeting HIPAA guidelines
- C.
Provides patient safety
- D.
Ensures the cleanliness of the machine
Correct Answer
A. Promotes accurate test resultsExplanation
Quality control testing of a glucometer is important because it promotes accurate test results. By regularly testing the glucometer, any potential errors or inaccuracies can be identified and corrected. This ensures that the device is functioning properly and providing reliable readings. Accurate test results are crucial for managing diabetes and making informed decisions about insulin dosage and other treatment options.Rate this question:
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- 16.
An MA takes the patient's history as part of a physical exam. Which of the following actions should the MA take next?
- A.
Administer stress test
- B.
Measure vital signs
- C.
Perform venipuncture
- D.
Urinalysis
Correct Answer
B. Measure vital signsExplanation
After taking the patient's history as part of a physical exam, the next logical step for the MA would be to measure the patient's vital signs. This is important as vital signs provide crucial information about the patient's overall health and can help in assessing their current condition. Administering a stress test, performing venipuncture, or conducting a urinalysis may be necessary in certain situations, but measuring vital signs is a standard procedure that should be done before proceeding with any further tests or procedures.Rate this question:
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- 17.
According to HIPAA guidelines, on a CMS-1500, which of the following information is required for each claim?
- A.
List of patient medications
- B.
Employee identification number
- C.
Dates of previous service
- D.
Time of service
Correct Answer
D. Time of serviceExplanation
According to HIPAA guidelines, the time of service is required for each claim on a CMS-1500 form. This information is important for accurately documenting the exact time that the service was provided to the patient. It helps in tracking the timeline of the patient's healthcare and ensures proper billing and reimbursement.Rate this question:
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- 18.
An MA is caring for a patient who has chronic asthma. Which of the following kinds of medications should the MA expect to relay to the pharmacy?
- A.
Antihistamine
- B.
Decongestant
- C.
Bronchodilator
- D.
Antipyretic
Correct Answer
C. BronchodilatorExplanation
The MA should expect to relay bronchodilator medication to the pharmacy for a patient with chronic asthma. Bronchodilators are a type of medication that helps to relax and open the airways, making it easier for the patient to breathe. This type of medication is commonly used to treat asthma symptoms and improve respiratory function. Antihistamines, decongestants, and antipyretics are not typically used to treat asthma, so the MA would not need to relay these medications to the pharmacy for this specific patient.Rate this question:
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- 19.
An MA is measuring an infant client from heel to head. In which of the following positions should the MA place the infant?
- A.
Prone
- B.
Sims
- C.
Lithotomy
- D.
Supine
Correct Answer
D. SupineExplanation
The MA should place the infant in the supine position when measuring from heel to head. The supine position refers to lying flat on the back with the face up. This position allows for easy access to the infant's entire body, including the heels and head, making it the most suitable position for accurate measurements.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The phlebotomy duties of an MA include which of the following?
- A.
Evaluating stained blood smears
- B.
Calibrating instruments within the laboratory
- C.
Establishing test protocols for specimen analysis
- D.
Perform venipunctures
Correct Answer
D. Perform venipuncturesExplanation
The correct answer is "Perform venipunctures." Phlebotomy is the process of drawing blood from patients for diagnostic testing or blood donation. As part of their duties, medical assistants (MAs) are trained to perform venipunctures, which involves inserting a needle into a vein to collect blood samples. Evaluating stained blood smears, calibrating instruments, and establishing test protocols are not typically within the scope of an MA's phlebotomy duties.Rate this question:
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- 21.
When a MA is taking a patient's blood pressure, which of the following Korotkoff sounds represents the systolic blood pressure?
- A.
Swooshing
- B.
Soft and muffed
- C.
Faint and pulsing
- D.
Tapping
Correct Answer
D. TappingExplanation
During the process of measuring blood pressure, Korotkoff sounds are heard. These sounds are produced by the blood flow through the arteries as the blood pressure cuff is deflated. The tapping sound represents the systolic blood pressure. This sound occurs when the pressure in the cuff is just below the pressure in the artery, allowing blood to flow intermittently. Therefore, the tapping sound is indicative of the systolic blood pressure.Rate this question:
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- 22.
When performing a 12-lead EKG on a patient, which of the following leads is used as a ground to help decrease interference?
- A.
Left leg
- B.
Right leg
- C.
Left arm
- D.
Right arm
Correct Answer
B. Right legExplanation
The right leg lead is used as a ground in a 12-lead EKG to help decrease interference. This is because the right leg is a good location for grounding due to its low electrical resistance and minimal muscle movement. By grounding the EKG, any external electrical interference can be minimized, resulting in a more accurate reading of the patient's heart activity.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which of the following is an appropriate response to a conscious, adult patient experiencing a hypoglycemic emergency?
- A.
Offer the patient a glass of water
- B.
Offer the patient orange juice
- C.
Offer the patient a sandwich
- D.
Offer the patient a piece of sugar-free candy
Correct Answer
B. Offer the patient orange juiceExplanation
Orange juice is an appropriate response to a conscious, adult patient experiencing a hypoglycemic emergency because it contains natural sugars that can quickly raise their blood sugar levels. The high sugar content in orange juice can help to rapidly increase their blood glucose levels and alleviate the symptoms of hypoglycemia.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which of the following is the correct route of administration for a patient's injection?
- A.
Buccal
- B.
Transdermal
- C.
Sublingual
- D.
Parenteral
Correct Answer
D. ParenteralExplanation
Parenteral is the correct route of administration for a patient's injection. This term refers to any method of administering medication that bypasses the digestive system. It includes injections given through intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, or intradermal routes. These routes allow the medication to be directly absorbed into the bloodstream, providing a faster and more reliable effect compared to oral or topical administration.Rate this question:
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- 25.
When preparing for transport, which of the following specimens must be placed into an ice bath within 30 min of the collection?
- A.
Blood gases
- B.
Cold agglutinins
- C.
Cryoglobulins
- D.
Blood cultures
Correct Answer
A. Blood gasesExplanation
Blood gases must be placed into an ice bath within 30 minutes of collection because they are very sensitive to changes in temperature. Blood gases provide important information about the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH in the blood, and these levels can change rapidly if the sample is not kept at the correct temperature. Placing the specimen in an ice bath helps to preserve the integrity of the blood gases and ensures accurate test results.Rate this question:
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Feb 20, 2017Quiz Created by
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