Medical Assistant – Clinical Review for Final Test

This set of flashcards is designed to help you review key concepts and terms related to medical assisting, specifically for the final test at Boston Career Institute.

What does HIPAA ensure regarding patient information?

HIPAA is a federal law that assures the privacy and confidentiality of the patient’s medical information.

What are the normal ranges for the four main vital signs?

Pulse: 60-100 BPM, Respiration: 12-20 RPM, Blood Pressure: 120/80 - 100/60, Temperature: 97.6 - 99.6°F.

What is the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure?

Systolic pressure is the top number (100-120) when the heart contracts; diastolic pressure is the bottom number (60-80) when the heart relaxes.

What instrument is used to measure blood pressure?

The sphygmomanometer is used to measure blood pressure, with units in mmHg.

What is bradycardia?

Bradycardia is when the pulse is under 60 BPM.

What pulse is felt at the apex of the heart?

The apical pulse is felt at the apex of the heart.

What is measured by a pulse oximeter?

Oxygen saturation, or O2Sat, is measured by a pulse oximeter.

What are the methods used for physical examination?

Inspection, auscultation, palpation, and percussion.

What must be obtained before drawing blood?

Informed consent must be obtained from the patient before drawing blood.

What is the order of drawing blood tubes?

Blood culture (special), blue, red, gold/tiger top, green, lavender/pink, grey.

What does 'G' in needle packaging stand for?

'G' stands for gauge, referring to the diameter of the needle.

What angle is used for subcutaneous injections?

Subcutaneous injections are given at a 45-degree angle.

What is the most common muscle for IM injections?

The deltoid muscle is the most common site for IM injections.

What does EKG stand for and what does it measure?

EKG stands for electrocardiogram, which measures the electrical activities of the heart.

What are the 5 rights of patient medication administration?

Right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, right time.

What are the steps of urinalysis?

Visual examination, chemical examination, and microscopic examination.

What condition is indicated by the presence of glucose in urine?

Glucosuria is indicated by the presence of glucose in urine.

What is the procedure done as a screening test for cervical cancer?

Pap smear is the screening test for cervical cancer.

What are the 3 steps of sterilization?

Cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization.

How should the needle be positioned when puncturing the skin?

The bevel of the needle should always be facing up.

What are the normal compressions per minute during CPR?

The normal range for compressions during CPR is 100 to 120 bpm.

What is the role of the diaphragm in respiration?

The diaphragm contracts and flattens during inhalation, increasing the thoracic cavity volume and allowing air to enter the lungs.

What is tachycardia?

Tachycardia is when the pulse exceeds 100 BPM.

How long should one wait between measuring blood pressure in each arm?

One should wait at least 1-2 minutes between measuring blood pressure in each arm to ensure accurate readings.

What does a normal oxygen saturation level indicate?

A normal oxygen saturation level typically indicates that the body is effectively oxygenating blood, with levels usually above 95%.

What type of vaccination is the Tdap vaccine?

The Tdap vaccine is a combination vaccine that protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.