MAP 2040 Medical Assisting Clinical Skills NHA Cardiac & Respiratory Procedures

Cardiac and Respiratory Procedures Overview

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Warm-Up Instructions for Cardiac Review Video

  • Preparation Steps:

    • Get a piece of paper and writing utensil for notes.

    • Find a quiet location free from distractions.

    • Log into NHA account for accessing cardiac modules.

  • Top Three Note-Taking Tips:

    1. Summarize key ideas instead of transcribing.

    2. Use highlights and abbreviations for emphasis.

    3. Review notes regularly to reinforce understanding.

Module Goals

  • Discuss when a 12-lead EKG is necessary.

  • Importance of proper lead placement for a 12-lead EKG.

  • Steps to prepare skin for EKG.

  • Purpose of a baseline pulmonary function test.

  • Role of coaching during pulmonary function testing and peak flow testing.

  • Conditions warranting peak flow testing.

  • Importance of managing patient safety and comfort during testing procedures.

Performance Objectives

  • PO 1: Perform a 12-lead electrocardiogram.

  • PO 2: Perform baseline pulmonary function test.

  • PO 3: Perform a peak flow test.

Key Points for Background and Importance

Electrocardiogram (EKG)

  • Provides critical information on heart rate and rhythm; can indicate prior heart attack.

  • Symptoms to watch for:

    • Shortness of breath

    • Dizziness

    • Fainting

    • Chest pain

  • Medical assistants must understand:

    • Proper lead placement

    • Common EKG terminology

    • Factors affecting EKG tracings

    • Recognition of abnormalities needing immediate attention.

Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)

  • Assesses lung function; aids in detecting pulmonary disease.

  • Conditions for testing:

    • Asthma

    • Emphysema

    • Chronic lung issues

    • Preoperative assessment for smokers/heart patients.

  • Medical assistants should:

    • Conduct tests

    • Guide and motivate patients during testing

    • Understand basic test result interpretations.

Peak Flow Test

  • Measures air exhaled forcefully; critical for patients with chronic lung issues.

  • Medical assistants need to instruct patients during tests and interpret results.

Additional Symptoms to Note

  • Weight loss

  • Exhaustion

  • Rapid heartbeat

Considerations

  • Communication factors include:

    • Age

    • Language barriers

    • Patient comfort and educational background.

    • Guidelines for patients refusing tests or unable to lie flat during EKG (consider semi-Fowler’s or seated position).

  • Contraindications for PFT and peak flow testing:

    • Pulmonary embolism

    • Myocardial infarction

    • Ascending aortic aneurysm.

Patient Experience Questions

  1. Comfort during EKG: Use semi-Fowler's position if patient cannot lay flat.

  2. Reassurance for anxious patient: Explain procedure is quick and painless.

  3. Importance of patient practice: Reduces anxiety and ensures understanding of procedure.

  4. Information to provide before testing: Explain procedures, purposes, and pre-test instructions clearly.

  5. Purpose of pausing after instructions: Allows time for processing and questions, enhancing understanding and reducing anxiety.

EKG Procedure

Steps for 12-Lead Electrocardiogram

  1. Check EHR: Confirm reasons for visit and orders.

  2. Prepare Equipment: Ensure proper settings and functional equipment.

  3. Patient Interaction: Greet, identify yourself, verify identity, explain the procedure, and ensure comfort.

  4. Patient Preparation: Position the patient appropriately and prepare the skin for electrodes.

  5. Electrode Placement: Follow established guidelines for electrode attachment on the body.

  6. Attach Cable Wires: Ensure proper connection to electrodes for successful tracing.

  7. Obtain Tracing: Enter patient information, instruct patient to remain still, and monitor for any issues.

  8. Conclude Procedure: Allow the patient to dress, provide instructions, and document the procedure in EHR.

Concluding Steps for EKG

  1. Assist patient in dressing and clean any residue from skin.

  2. Document details in EHR including date, time, provider, and patient response.

  3. Perform hand hygiene and ensure equipment is disinfected.

Baseline Pulmonary Function Test Steps

  1. Verify patient identity and follow hand hygiene protocols.

  2. Gather and disinfect equipment.

  3. Explain the procedure thoroughly and guide the patient through initial steps.

  4. Ensure there are no hindering factors like restrictive clothing or prior unsafe activities.

  5. Position the patient correctly and record vital statistics (height, weight).

  6. Conduct spirometry testing by providing thorough instructions and support.

  7. Document the process, results, and patient experience.

Peak Flow Meter Testing Steps

  1. Check patient EHR for context and instructions.

  2. Explain test procedures and encourage practice for better results.

  3. Document test outcomes and ensure proper cleanup of equipment.

Wrap-Up: Post Procedure Considerations

  • EKGs and PFTs play key roles in assessing heart and lung function.

  • Patient experience remains paramount, ensuring that communication is clear and all questions are adequately addressed.