Medical Assistant's Responsibilities and Specimen Collection

This set of flashcards covers the responsibilities of medical assistants, the importance of specimen collection, and the concept of normal and abnormal ranges in lab results.

Test Results

Cannot be given to a patient until the provider has reviewed them.

Patient Preparation

The process of getting a patient ready for a medical test or procedure.

Proper Labeling

Ensuring that all specimens are labeled accurately to prevent misidentification.

Care of Specimen

The handling and storage of a specimen to maintain its integrity.

Normal Range

A numeric range of test values that reflects what is considered typical for a healthy population.

Why are Specimens Collected?

To document patient health, screen for disease, diagnose disorders, and monitor treatment effectiveness.

Quality Control

The procedures that ensure test results are accurate and reliable.

Reference Range

A range used to compare lab results, indicating expected values for a healthy population.

Abnormal Results

Results that fall outside of the reference range, indicating potential health issues.

Examples of Conditions with Abnormal Hemoglobin Levels

Iron deficiency anemia, hyperthyroidism, and cirrhosis of the liver.