Medical Assistant Practice Exams 1

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1. The most common site for cancer incidence in males is the

Explanation

The correct answer is Prostate. Prostate cancer is the most common site for cancer incidence in males. It is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate gland, which is a small walnut-shaped gland that produces seminal fluid. Prostate cancer usually grows slowly and initially remains confined to the prostate gland. It is more common in older men and can cause symptoms such as difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or semen, and erectile dysfunction. Regular screenings and early detection can improve the chances of successful treatment for prostate cancer.

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About This Quiz
Medical Assistant Practice Exams 1 - Quiz

Medical Assistant Practice Exams 1 assesses key competencies in patient care, medical terminology, and healthcare procedures. It is designed for aspiring medical assistants to evaluate their readiness and... see moreunderstanding of essential medical practices. see less

2. The abbreviation for "sexually transmitted disease" is

Explanation

The correct answer is STD, which stands for sexually transmitted disease.

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3. The medical assistant's most effective means of preventing the spread of infection from one patient to another is to

Explanation

The most effective means of preventing the spread of infection from one patient to another is to wash one's hands after each patient. This is because hands are the primary mode of transmission for many infections, and proper hand hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of spreading pathogens. Wearing a gown and mask, wearing sterile gloves, disinfecting the examination table, and disinfecting the instruments are all important infection control measures, but they are not as effective as handwashing in preventing the spread of infection.

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4. Bipolar disorder is characterized by

Explanation

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that is characterized by extreme shifts in mood. These mood swings can range from periods of euphoria and high energy (known as manic episodes) to periods of depression and low energy. People with bipolar disorder may experience intense happiness, increased activity levels, racing thoughts, and decreased need for sleep during manic episodes. On the other hand, during depressive episodes, they may feel sad, hopeless, fatigued, have difficulty concentrating, and lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. Therefore, the presence of euphoric and depressed moods is a defining feature of bipolar disorder.

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5. The study of drugs and their actions in the body is called

Explanation

Pharmacology is the study of drugs and their actions in the body, including their interactions with living organisms and their effects on physiological processes. It involves understanding how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted by the body, as well as their mechanisms of action and therapeutic uses. Pharmacology is a broad field that encompasses the study of both natural and synthetic drugs, and it plays a crucial role in the development and use of medications for the treatment of various diseases and conditions.

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6. A prescription reads: Ibuprofen 200 q 4-6 hr prn fever. Which of the following is indicated by the abbreviation prn?

Explanation

The abbreviation "prn" stands for "pro re nata" which means "as needed" in Latin. In the context of the prescription, it indicates that the medication should be taken only when necessary, specifically for the purpose of reducing fever. It suggests that the patient should take Ibuprofen 200 mg every 4 to 6 hours, depending on the severity of the fever.

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7. Intentional torts

Explanation

Intentional torts refer to wrongful acts committed intentionally, with the intention to cause harm or injury to another person. They are not forms of abandonment, misdemeanors, negligence, or a breach of contract. Instead, intentional torts include assault, which involves intentionally causing fear of physical harm, defamation, which involves making false statements that harm someone's reputation, and invasion of privacy, which involves intruding upon someone's private affairs without their consent. These actions are considered intentional torts because they involve intentional wrongdoing rather than accidental or negligent behavior.

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8. When is it legal to release medical information about a patient?

Explanation

Medical information about a patient can only be legally released when there is a subpoena ordering the release. A subpoena is a legal document issued by a court that requires the disclosure of information. This means that the patient's privacy rights are protected unless there is a legal order compelling the release of their medical information. The other options mentioned in the question, such as when the person asking for it is a close relative or friend, when the patient has verbally consented, or when an insurance company requests it, are not sufficient reasons to release medical information without a subpoena.

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9. Which of the following radiological studies requires the patient to fast for twelve hours prior to the procedure?

Explanation

The correct answer is Upper gastrointestinal X-ray series. This radiological study requires the patient to fast for twelve hours prior to the procedure because it involves imaging of the upper gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. Fasting helps to ensure that the stomach is empty, which allows for better visualization of the organs and reduces the risk of complications during the procedure.

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10. Any infection or inflammation of the membranes covering the brain or spinal cord is called

Explanation

Meningitis is the correct answer because it refers to an infection or inflammation of the membranes, known as meninges, that cover the brain and spinal cord. This condition can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens, and it can lead to symptoms such as headache, fever, stiff neck, and sensitivity to light. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and potential damage to the central nervous system.

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11. The prefix hypo-means

Explanation

The prefix hypo- in medical terminology indicates a state or condition that is below the normal or expected level. It is derived from the Greek word "hypo" which means "under" or "below." Therefore, the correct answer is "Below" as it accurately represents the meaning of the prefix hypo-.

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12. The prefix ab- means

Explanation

The prefix "ab-" is commonly used to indicate movement or direction away from something. For example, in words like "abandon" or "absent," the prefix suggests a sense of separation or distance. Therefore, "away from" is the most appropriate explanation for the meaning of the prefix "ab-."

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13. The combining form ren/o refers to the  

Explanation

The combining form ren/o refers to the kidney. This can be understood by breaking down the word "ren/o" - "reno" refers to the kidney. Combining forms are used in medical terminology to indicate specific body parts or systems, and in this case, "ren/o" specifically refers to the kidney.

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14. All of the following waves are part of one heartbeat on an ECG tracing except

Explanation

The correct answer is V. In an ECG tracing, the P wave represents atrial depolarization, the QRS complex represents ventricular depolarization, and the T wave represents ventricular repolarization. The V wave is not a recognized wave in the normal ECG pattern and therefore is not part of one heartbeat on an ECG tracing.

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15. A forty-four-year-old woman comes to the emergency room complaining of nausea, vomiting, and pain in the upper abdomen. She also appears to have mild jaundice. These symptoms are most characteristic of

Explanation

The symptoms described in the scenario, including nausea, vomiting, pain in the upper abdomen, and mild jaundice, are most characteristic of cholelithiasis. Cholelithiasis refers to the presence of gallstones in the gallbladder, which can cause blockage of the bile ducts and lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain and jaundice. Stomach cancer, diabetes insipidus, hyperinsulinism, and myxedema do not typically present with the same combination of symptoms described in the scenario.

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16. To maximize communication with children, all of the following guidelines are good practices except

Explanation

Working directly with parents is an important guideline for maximizing communication with children. Collaborating with parents allows for a holistic understanding of the child's needs and ensures consistency in communication and support. By involving parents, professionals can gain valuable insights into the child's background, preferences, and specific communication strategies that work best for them. This collaborative approach enhances the overall effectiveness of communication and fosters a supportive and inclusive environment for the child.

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17. Which of the following types of bacteria is arranged in clusters?

Explanation

Staphylococci is the correct answer because it is a type of bacteria that is arranged in clusters. The name "staphylococci" comes from the Greek words "staphylē" meaning "bunch of grapes" and "kokkos" meaning "berry," which accurately describes the clustered arrangement of these bacteria. Streptococci, on the other hand, are arranged in chains, while diplococci are arranged in pairs. Protozoa and spirilla are not types of bacteria but rather different types of microorganisms.

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18. Which of the following is the role of the umbilical vein in fetal circulation?

Explanation

The umbilical vein is responsible for transporting oxygen-rich blood from the placenta to the fetus. This is essential for the fetus's oxygenation and overall development.

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19. The place where transactions are first recorded is called the

Explanation

The correct answer is "All of the above" because all the options listed (General journal, Charge journal, Daysheet, and Daily log) are places where transactions can be first recorded. Each option represents a different type of record-keeping system that businesses may use to track and record their transactions. Therefore, all of these options are valid answers for the place where transactions are first recorded.

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20. Placing area rugs in the reception area of a medical office is an example of

Explanation

Placing area rugs in the reception area of a medical office can be considered a safety hazard because they can create a tripping hazard for patients and staff. Rugs can easily bunch up or slide on smooth floors, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. In a medical setting where people may already be vulnerable or have mobility issues, it is important to prioritize safety and minimize any potential hazards that could cause harm.

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21. HCPCS is the abbreviation for the Health Care Procedural Coding System, mandated by Congress for

Explanation

HCPCS is the abbreviation for the Health Care Procedural Coding System, which is mandated by Congress for Medicare. This system is used to standardize the coding of medical procedures and services provided to Medicare beneficiaries. It helps ensure accurate billing, reimbursement, and data collection for Medicare claims. HCPCS codes are also used by other payers, such as Medicaid, but it is specifically mandated for Medicare. Therefore, the correct answer is Medicare.

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22. Which of the following is the correct postal abbreviation for Circle?  

Explanation

The correct postal abbreviation for Circle is CIR.

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23. Voucher checks are commonly used for

Explanation

Voucher checks are commonly used for payroll because they provide a convenient and secure way to distribute employee wages. Voucher checks include detailed information about the payment, such as the employee's name, amount, and any deductions. This helps to ensure accuracy and transparency in the payroll process. Additionally, voucher checks can be easily tracked and recorded for accounting purposes.

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24. Carbohydrate is stored in the liver as

Explanation

Glycogen is the correct answer because it is the main form in which carbohydrates are stored in the liver. When the body needs energy, glycogen is broken down into glucose to be used as fuel. Starch, sucrose, disaccharides, and lactose are all types of carbohydrates, but they are not specifically stored in the liver as glycogen.

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25. Bills and statements of account should be sent as

Explanation

Bills and statements of account should be sent as First-Class Mail because it is the most reliable and efficient method for delivering important documents. First-Class Mail offers fast delivery times and includes features such as tracking and delivery confirmation, ensuring that the bills and statements reach the intended recipients in a timely manner. This option is commonly used for important correspondence that requires prompt attention and accurate delivery.

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26. Which of the following terms indicates increased appetite?

Explanation

Polyphagia is the term that indicates increased appetite. "Poly-" means excessive or increased, and "phagia" refers to eating or appetite. Therefore, polyphagia specifically refers to an abnormally increased appetite, which can be a symptom of various medical conditions such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism.

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27. When filing patient records, which of the following should be filed first?

Explanation

The patient records should be filed in alphabetical order based on the last name. In this case, "Edward" is the last name for all the options. Among the given options, "Paul Edward Jr." comes first alphabetically, followed by "Paul Edward Sr.", "Paul J. Edward Sr.", "P. Travis Edward Jr.", and "P. Travis Edward Sr.". Therefore, "Paul Edward Jr." should be filed first.

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28. A regular referral from a primary care physician often takes

Explanation

A regular referral from a primary care physician often takes from 3 to 10 days. This suggests that there is a process involved in obtaining a referral, which may include gathering necessary information, reviewing the patient's medical history, and coordinating with the specialist. It is not immediate, like a phone call referral, but also not as long as a month. Therefore, the correct answer is from 3 to 10 days.

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29. A method of identifying and separating items to be filed into smaller subunits is called

Explanation

Indexing is the correct answer because it refers to the process of organizing and categorizing items to be filed into smaller subunits. This method helps in efficient retrieval and management of information by creating a systematic structure or index. It involves assigning keywords, codes, or labels to items to facilitate easy identification and sorting. Indexing is commonly used in libraries, databases, and filing systems to enhance accessibility and organization of files and documents.

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30. A certain patient often comes to your office for cancer treatment. When this patient comes in with a sore throat caused by the flu, what is the primary diagnosis according to the ICD-9-CM?

Explanation

The primary diagnosis according to the ICD-9-CM for a patient with a sore throat caused by the flu would be the flu. This is because the flu is the underlying cause of the sore throat in this scenario.

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31. Which part of the brain is responsible for language comprehension?

Explanation

Wernicke's area, located in the left hemisphere of the brain, is responsible for language comprehension. It is involved in the understanding and interpretation of spoken and written language. Damage to this area can result in Wernicke's aphasia, a condition characterized by difficulty understanding language and producing coherent speech. This suggests that Wernicke's area plays a crucial role in language comprehension.

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32. Which of the following pieces of office equipment is necessary for electronic data interchange?

Explanation

A modem is necessary for electronic data interchange because it is a device that allows computers to transmit data over telephone or cable lines. It converts digital signals from the computer into analog signals that can be transmitted over the phone or cable lines, and then converts the analog signals back into digital signals that the receiving computer can understand. Without a modem, electronic data interchange would not be possible as it relies on the ability to transmit and receive data electronically.

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33. The primary purpose of a patient record-filing system is to

Explanation

The primary purpose of a patient record-filing system is to facilitate efficient document retrieval. This means that the system is designed to make it easy and quick for authorized personnel to locate and access patient documents when needed. By organizing and categorizing the files in a systematic manner, the system ensures that the documents can be retrieved in a timely manner, allowing for efficient workflow and effective patient care.

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34. When sending a specimen for a throat culture to an outside laboratory, which of the following substances should be used?

Explanation

When sending a specimen for a throat culture to an outside laboratory, a transport medium should be used. This is because a transport medium is specifically designed to maintain the viability and integrity of the specimen during transportation. It provides the necessary nutrients and conditions for the survival of the microorganisms present in the specimen. Agar medium is used for culturing microorganisms in the laboratory, while saline solution is used for rinsing or diluting specimens. Fixative solution is used to preserve and stabilize the structure of cells or tissues for microscopic examination.

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35. Bob Johnson goes to his participating HMO provider for a checkup and a flu shot. The allowed charge for a checkup is $80, and the physician's usual fee is $85. The allowed charge for the flu shot is $50, and the physician's usual fee is $40. How much is Mr. Johnson charged for the visit?

Explanation

not-available-via-ai

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36. Which abbreviation refers to the left ear?

Explanation

The abbreviation "AS" refers to the left ear.

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37. Amounts of money owed to a medical practice for professional services rendered are

Explanation

Accounts receivable refers to the amounts of money owed to a medical practice for professional services rendered. This term is used in the context of the practice's financial records to track the outstanding payments from patients or insurance companies. It represents the income that is expected to be received in the future.

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38. Which of the following medical instruments is used to examine the pressure of the eyes?

Explanation

A tonometer is a medical instrument used to examine the pressure of the eyes. It is specifically designed to measure intraocular pressure, which is important in diagnosing and managing conditions such as glaucoma. The tonometer works by gently touching the surface of the eye or by using a puff of air to measure the resistance and pressure within the eye. This helps ophthalmologists and optometrists assess the health of the eyes and determine the appropriate treatment plan for the patient.

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39. According to Erikson's stages of development, a four-year-old boy who is not allowed to initiate some tasks by himself will later show

Explanation

According to Erikson's stages of development, a four-year-old boy who is not allowed to initiate some tasks by himself will later show guilt when initiating tasks. This is because during the stage of initiative versus guilt, children develop a sense of purpose and the ability to initiate activities. If they are consistently prevented from doing so, they may develop feelings of guilt and a lack of confidence in their abilities.

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40. Which of the following statements was true of Special Delivery?

Explanation

Special Delivery was a service that ensured prompt delivery of mail once it reached the recipient's post office. This means that when something was marked Special Delivery, it was delivered as soon as it reached the recipient's post office. Additionally, Special Delivery could not be used for items sent to a post office box or to a military address. Therefore, the correct answer is "Both A and B".

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41. Which of the following is true of the specific immune response?

Explanation

The specific immune response is controlled by T cells and undergoes significant changes after exposure to a pathogen. T cells play a crucial role in recognizing and targeting specific antigens, activating other immune cells, and coordinating the immune response. After exposure to a pathogen, T cells undergo clonal expansion, leading to an increased number of T cells specific to the pathogen. This expansion allows for a more efficient and targeted immune response upon subsequent encounters with the same pathogen. Therefore, the statement that the specific immune response is controlled by T cells and highly changed after exposure to a pathogen is true.

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42. Which of the following is also called a bipolar lead?

Explanation

A standard lead is also called a bipolar lead because it uses two electrodes to measure the electrical activity of the heart. These electrodes are placed on different parts of the body, such as the limbs or the chest. The electrical signals recorded by the electrodes provide information about the heart's functioning and can help diagnose various cardiac conditions.

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43. To ensure the continuous accuracy of accounts, a medical assistant can

Explanation

Taking a trial balance is a process where all the accounts in the ledger are listed along with their respective debit and credit balances. The purpose of taking a trial balance is to ensure that the total debits equal the total credits, which helps in identifying any errors or discrepancies in the accounts. By comparing the trial balance with the original journals and ledgers, a medical assistant can ensure the continuous accuracy of accounts and detect any mistakes or omissions that may have occurred during the recording process.

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44. Which of the following statements is not tue regarding the preparation of a patient for MRI?

Explanation

The statement "The patient should avoid alcohol for four hours before the procedure" is not true regarding the preparation of a patient for MRI. This is because patients are generally advised to avoid consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours before an MRI examination, as alcohol can affect the accuracy of the imaging results.

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45. If a needlestick injury occurs, you should take all of the following action excepts

Explanation

In case of a needlestick injury, it is important to take immediate action to prevent any potential infections or diseases. This includes washing your hands to clean the affected area, documenting and reporting the injury for record-keeping purposes, covering the injury to prevent further contamination, and notifying your supervisor to ensure proper follow-up. However, sending the report to the local health department is not necessary as it is not typically a requirement in such cases.

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46. Physicians are required to keep payroll data for how many years?

Explanation

Physicians are required to keep payroll data for four years. This is important for record-keeping and compliance purposes. By retaining payroll data for this duration, physicians can ensure that they have accurate and up-to-date information regarding their employees' salaries, wages, and benefits. It also allows them to address any potential issues or discrepancies that may arise in the future. Additionally, keeping payroll data for four years enables physicians to meet any legal or regulatory requirements related to payroll and employment documentation.

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47. A type of trial in which the verdict is decided by the judge is called

Explanation

In a trial where the verdict is decided by the judge, it is referred to as a "bench" trial. This means that there is no jury involved, and the judge alone determines the outcome of the case based on the evidence presented and the applicable laws. The judge serves as both the fact-finder and the decision-maker in these types of trials, making the final judgment on the case.

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48. Mr. Brown, who is thirty-nine years old, received second-and third-degree burns on his chest, abdomen, upper back, and genital area. Which of the following is an estimation of the extent of his burn?

Explanation

Based on the given information, Mr. Brown has received burns on his chest, abdomen, upper back, and genital area. The estimation of the extent of his burn is 28 percent.

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49. Res ipsa loquitur means

Explanation

Res ipsa loquitur is a Latin legal term that means "the matter speaks for itself". It is a legal doctrine that allows a plaintiff to establish a defendant's negligence based on the circumstances of the case. It applies when the event causing the injury or harm is of a type that would not normally occur without negligence, and the defendant has exclusive control over the instrumentality that caused the harm. In such cases, the plaintiff does not need to provide direct evidence of the defendant's negligence because the circumstances themselves imply negligence.

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50. Tetracyclines are

Explanation

Tetracyclines are classified as bacteriostatic antibiotics because they inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria rather than directly killing them. They do this by binding to the bacterial ribosomes, which are responsible for protein synthesis, and preventing them from functioning properly. This ultimately leads to the inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis and slows down bacterial growth. Bacteriostatic antibiotics are different from bactericidal antibiotics, which directly kill bacteria.

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The most common site for cancer incidence in males is the
The abbreviation for "sexually transmitted disease" is
The medical assistant's most effective means of preventing the spread...
Bipolar disorder is characterized by
The study of drugs and their actions in the body is called
A prescription reads: Ibuprofen 200 q 4-6 hr prn fever. Which of the...
Intentional torts
When is it legal to release medical information about a patient?
Which of the following radiological studies requires the patient to...
Any infection or inflammation of the membranes covering the brain or...
The prefix hypo-means
The prefix ab- means
The combining form ren/o refers to the  
All of the following waves are part of one heartbeat on an ECG tracing...
A forty-four-year-old woman comes to the emergency room complaining of...
To maximize communication with children, all of the following...
Which of the following types of bacteria is arranged in clusters?
Which of the following is the role of the umbilical vein in fetal...
The place where transactions are first recorded is called the
Placing area rugs in the reception area of a medical office is an...
HCPCS is the abbreviation for the Health Care Procedural Coding...
Which of the following is the correct postal abbreviation for Circle? ...
Voucher checks are commonly used for
Carbohydrate is stored in the liver as
Bills and statements of account should be sent as
Which of the following terms indicates increased appetite?
When filing patient records, which of the following should be filed...
A regular referral from a primary care physician often takes
A method of identifying and separating items to be filed into smaller...
A certain patient often comes to your office for cancer treatment....
Which part of the brain is responsible for language comprehension?
Which of the following pieces of office equipment is necessary for...
The primary purpose of a patient record-filing system is to
When sending a specimen for a throat culture to an outside laboratory,...
Bob Johnson goes to his participating HMO provider for a checkup and a...
Which abbreviation refers to the left ear?
Amounts of money owed to a medical practice for professional services...
Which of the following medical instruments is used to examine the...
According to Erikson's stages of development, a four-year-old boy...
Which of the following statements was true of Special Delivery?
Which of the following is true of the specific immune response?
Which of the following is also called a bipolar lead?
To ensure the continuous accuracy of accounts, a medical assistant can
Which of the following statements is not tue regarding the preparation...
If a needlestick injury occurs, you should take all of the following...
Physicians are required to keep payroll data for how many years?
A type of trial in which the verdict is decided by the judge is called
Mr. Brown, who is thirty-nine years old, received second-and...
Res ipsa loquitur means
Tetracyclines are
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