NRCMA Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant Questions and Answers

Hyperglycemia refers to elevated levels of glucose in the blood, commonly associated with diabetes mellitus. It occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Symptoms of hyperglycemia include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. Chronic hyperglycemia can lead to serious complications such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney failure, and retinopathy. Management of blood glucose levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes to prevent these complications.

The prefixosteo-meansbone. This prefix is used in medical terminology to refer to conditions and structures related to bones, such as osteoarthritis (a type of arthritis that affects bones and joints) and osteoporosis (a condition where bones become weak and brittle).

References:

Mosby's Medical Dictionary (10th ed.). (2017). Elsevier.

Stedman's Medical Dictionary (28th ed.). (2006). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

An inflamed condition of the tendon and tendon muscles is referred to as tendonitis. Tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, often caused by overuse or repetitive movements. It commonly affects the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels.

References:

Tendinopathy: From Basic Science to Clinical Management by Savio L-Y. Woo and Per A. F. H. Renström

Principles of Orthopedic Practice by Roger H. Michael

The abbreviation for "immediately" in medical terminology is"SIAI", which stands for "Statim" or "stat," a term used to indicate urgency. The use of "stat" comes from the Latin word "statim," meaning "immediately." This is a common term used in medical settings to convey the need for immediate action or treatment. The other options (Rx, IMM, IMI) do not represent the abbreviation for immediately.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials and medical terminology references.

A diagnostic technique that detects regions of heat and cold in the body is called thermography. Thermography involves the use of infrared cameras to capture temperature variations on the surface of the body. This technique is useful for identifying areas of inflammation, abnormal blood flow, and other conditions that cause changes in skin temperature.

When collecting specimens for a white blood count (WBC), you would use a tube that containsEDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid)as an anticoagulant. EDTA prevents blood from clotting by binding calcium ions, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the blood sample for accurate WBC analysis.

The best way to take a respiratory rate is bywatching the patient's chest rise and fall while appearing to take the pulse. This method allows for an accurate count of breaths per minute without making the patient conscious of their breathing, which could alter the rate. This approach is subtle and ensures that the patient remains relaxed.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, clinical examination techniques.

A condition characterized by frequent liquid stools isdiarrhea. Diarrhea involves the frequent passage of loose or watery stools and can be caused by various factors, including infections, food intolerances, or certain medications.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, gastrointestinal disorder references.

A patient in the prone position is lying face down. This position is commonly used in medical examinations and surgical procedures to access the back or posterior parts of the body. It helps in various diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, providing better access to the dorsal surface of the body.

References:

Mosby's Medical Dictionary

Clinical Examination Techniques by Talley and O'Connor

Bradycardia refers to a slow heart beat, defined as a heart rate of fewer than 60 beats per minute in adults. It can be a normal condition in well-trained athletes but may also indicate a problem with the heart's electrical system. Symptoms of bradycardia can include fatigue, dizziness, weakness, and fainting.

Infantile eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, typically appears in the first year of life. It is characterized by red, raised, pruritic (itchy), and scaling areas, commonly found on the cheeks,scalp, and diaper area. It is not associated with an increase in sebaceous activity, and while it often improves with age, it does not resolve permanently in all cases by the age of three.

References:

American Academy of Dermatology - Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Information

Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics

The act of giving birth is called parturition. Parturition involves the process of labor and delivery, where the fetus and placenta are expelled from the uterus. It includes several stages: dilation of the cervix, delivery of the baby, and delivery of the placenta.

References:

Williams Obstetrics by F. Gary Cunningham

Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies by Steven G. Gabbe, Jennifer R. Niebyl, and Joe Leigh Simpson

Autoclaving is a sterilization process that uses high-pressure saturated steam, and proper timing ensures the complete elimination of all microorganisms on the instruments.

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (n.d.). Guidelines for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities.

Rutala, W. A., & Weber, D. J. (2019).Disinfection, Sterilization, and Antisepsis: Principles, Practices, Current Issues, New Research, and New Technologies. Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC).

Medicarepays80 percentof the approved amount for covered services after the beneficiary meets the deductible. The remaining 20 percent is typically paid by the patient or a secondary insurance if the patient has one. This cost-sharing helps manage the expenses between Medicare and the patient.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, Medicare guidelines.

The abbreviation forthree times a dayist.i.d.This stands for "ter in die," which is Latin for "three times a day." This notation is commonly used in medical prescriptions to indicate that a medication should be taken three times throughout the day.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, medical abbreviation guides.

A tray for a pelvic examination normally includes a vaginal speculum and lubricant. The speculum is a medical tool used to open the vaginal walls for visual inspection and access to the cervix during the examination. Lubricant is applied to the speculum to ease insertion and increase patient comfort. Other instruments that may be included depending on the specific examination or procedure are gloves, tenaculum, and hemostat forceps. Proper preparation of the examination tray ensures that the healthcare provider has all necessary tools readily available, facilitating a smooth and efficient examination process.

The premature termination of pregnancy before the embryo or fetus is able to exist on its own is referred to as abortion. This can occur spontaneously, known as a miscarriage, or it can be induced medically or surgically. Abortions can be performed for various reasons, including medical, personal, or legal.

References:

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) - Guidelines on Abortion

World Health Organization (WHO) - Safe Abortion Guidelines

The small sac attached to the underside of the liver that stores bile is called thegallbladder. The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver, releasing it into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, anatomy and physiology textbooks.

A listing of specific services rendered and fees charged is anitemized statement. This document provides a detailed account of the services provided to a patient and the corresponding charges, ensuring transparency and accuracy in billing.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, medical billing and coding references.

A medical assistant is permitted to administer injections only when they have explicit orders from a physician or a nurse who has the authority to delegate this task. This ensures that the medical assistant is acting within their scope of practice and is administering the correct medication and dosage as prescribed. This protocol helps to maintain patient safety and adhere to legal and professional standards.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, clinical guidelines.

AnEndocrinologistis a physician specializing in diagnosing and treating diseases and malfunctions of the endocrine glands, which secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream. These glands include the thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, pituitary, and others. Endocrinologists manage conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and hormonal imbalances.

Gynecologist: Specializes in women's reproductive health.

Gastroenterologist: Specializes in the digestive system.

Urologist: Specializes in the urinary system and male reproductive organs.

The abbreviation forimmediatelyisSTAT. This term is used in medical contexts to indicate that an action is to be taken immediately, derived from the Latin word "statim."

References:

Mosby's Medical Dictionary (10th ed.). (2017). Elsevier.

Stedman's Medical Abbreviations, Acronyms & Symbols (5th ed.). (2013). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

The termoccultmeanshidden. In medical contexts, this term is often used to describe conditions or symptoms that are not immediately apparent or visible. For example, occult blood in the stool refers to blood that is not visible to the naked eye but can be detected through chemical tests.

References:

Mosby's Medical Dictionary (10th ed.). (2017). Elsevier.

Dorland's Illustrated Medical Dictionary (32nd ed.). (2011). Elsevier.

The facial bones that compose the lower jaw are referred to as themandibular bones. The mandible, or lower jawbone, is the largest and strongest bone of the face. It holds the lower teeth in place and is the only movable bone of the skull.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, anatomy textbooks.

The human adult body typically has206 bones. These bones provide structure, protect organs, anchor muscles, and store calcium. Infants are born with approximately 270 bones, some of which fuse together during growth to form the 206 bones in an adult skeleton. The other options are incorrect as they do not represent the total bone count in the adult human body.

Athoracotomyis a surgical procedure involving an incision into the chest wall to gain access to the thoracic organs, particularly the lungs and heart. This procedure is performed for various diagnostic and therapeutic reasons, including lung biopsy, tumor removal, or treatment of thoracic injuries. The other terms refer to related but different concepts:

Thoracic: Pertaining to the chest.

Thorax: The part of the body between the neck and the abdomen, encasing the chest.

Thoracostomy: The creation of an opening into the chest cavity, often for the insertion of a chest tube.

For a vaginal examination, the patient is typically positioned in the lithotomy position. This position involves the patient lying on their back with their legs flexed at the hips and knees, and the feet placed in stirrups. This positioning provides the healthcare provider with optimal access to the pelvic area for examination. Proper patient positioning is crucial for both the comfort of the patient and the effectiveness of the examination. The lithotomy position is standard for many gynecological procedures, including pelvic exams, Pap smears, and certain surgical procedures.

Another name for myocardial infarction is heart attack. A myocardial infarction occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked for a long enough time that part of the heart muscle is damaged or dies. It is typically caused by the blockage of a coronary artery due to plaque buildup.

The United States health care system relies heavily onPrivate Health Insurance. The majority of Americans obtain health insurance through private insurers, often provided as part of employment benefits. This system contrasts with other countries that may rely more on public health insurance or national health services. Private health insurance covers a wide range of medical services and is a critical component of the U.S. healthcare infrastructure.

The abbreviation for every hour is "Q.H." This is derived from the Latin "quaque hora," meaning "every hour." It is used in medical prescriptions and instructions to indicate the frequency of medication or treatment administration.

References:

Medical Abbreviations: 32,000 Conveniences at the Expense of Communication and Safety by Neil M. Davis

Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) - Abbreviation Guidelines

Normal oral temperature of 98.6°F is equivalent to 37.0°C. This conversion is based on the formula for converting Fahrenheit to Celsius: C=(F−32)×59\text{C} = (\text{F} - 32) \times\frac{5}{9}C=(F−32)×95​. Maintaining accurate temperature readings is important for diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions.

References:

Clinical Methods: The History, Physical, and Laboratory Examinations by Walker, Hall, and Hurst

Temperature and Vital Signs Monitoring in Clinical Practice

The most common bacteriology stain is the Gram stain. The Gram stain differentiates bacterial species into Gram-positive and Gram-negative groups based on the composition of their cell walls. This staining technique is crucial in microbiology for identifying and classifying bacteria, guiding antibiotic treatment decisions.

References:

Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology by Patricia Tille

Medical Microbiology by Patrick R. Murray

When giving an injection into the buttocks, the sciatic nerve is the nerve to be most concerned with. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, running from the lower back down through the buttocks and into the legs. To avoid injuring this nerve, intramuscular injections in the buttocks are typically given in the upper outer quadrant of the gluteal muscle. This area is safely away from the path of the sciatic nerve, minimizing the risk of nerve damage.

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease characterized by insulin deficiency or resistance. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1, where the body does not produce insulin, and Type 2, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels. Without effective insulin function, blood sugar levels can become dangerously high, leading to various health complications.

IPPB (Intermittent Positive Pressure Breathing) treatment is commonly used for patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). IPPB is a form of respiratory therapy that provides short-term mechanical ventilation to assist patients in breathing more deeply and improving lung function. It helps to deliver medication, reduce the work of breathing, and expand collapsed alveoli.

References:

Egan's Fundamentals of Respiratory Care by Robert L. Wilkins, James K. Stoller, and Craig L. Scanlan

Respiratory Care: Principles and Practice by Dean Hess

The most common combining form in medical terminology is"o". A combining form consists of a root word and a combining vowel, typically "o", which is used to ease pronunciation when adding suffixes or when combining multiple roots.

References:

Chabner, D.-E. (2016). The Language of Medicine (11th ed.). Elsevier.

Cohen, B. J., & DePetris, A. (2013).Medical Terminology: An Illustrated Guide (7th ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Anemiais a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood, leading to a lack of oxygen being carried to the body's tissues. This can result from a deficiency of iron, vitamin B12, or folate, among other causes. The other options refer to different conditions:

Angina: Chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.

Ischemia: Restricted blood supply to tissues, causing a shortage of oxygen needed for cellular metabolism.

The abbreviation for every two hours is Q.2h. This medical abbreviation is derived from Latin "quaque 2 hora," meaning "every two hours." It is commonly used in medical prescriptions and instructions to indicate the frequency of medication administration or other recurring treatments.

References:

Mosby's Medical Dictionary, 10th Edition

Ball and socket joints, like those in the shoulder (glenohumeral joint) and hip (acetabulofemoral joint), allow for rotational movement and a wide range of motion in multiple directions. These joints consist of a spherical head (ball) that fits into a cup-like cavity (socket). The design of ball and socket joints permits movements such as flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation. This extensive range of motion makes them critical for various daily activities and athletic movements.

An agent given to counteract an unwanted effect of a drug is called an antidote. Antidotes are used to neutralize or mitigate the effects of poisons or overdoses of medications, ensuring patient safety and recovery from toxic exposures.

References:

Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies by Lewis R. Goldfrank

Poisoning & Drug Overdose by Kent R. Olson

Liver enlargement is medically referred to as hepatomegaly. The term "hepatomegaly" comes from "hepato," meaning liver, and "megaly," meaning enlargement. This condition can be indicative of various underlying health issues, such as liver disease, congestive heart failure, infections, or cancer. Diagnosing hepatomegaly typically involves physical examination, imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans, and sometimes liver function tests. Recognizing and understanding the term hepatomegaly is essential for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing conditions related to liver health.

A mild hypnotic drug that is relaxing but doesn't necessarily produce sleep is called a sedative. Sedatives are used to calm patients, reduce anxiety, and induce relaxation. They are commonly used in medical settings to prepare patients for procedures or to alleviate stress and anxiety.

References:

Goodman & Gilman's: The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics

Essentials of Pharmacology for Health Professions by Colbert and Woodrow

Tendons are strong, fibrous connective tissues that attach muscles to bones, enabling movement.They transmit the force generated by muscle contractions to the bones, allowing the skeleton to move. Tendons are composed mainly of collagen fibers, which give them strength and flexibility. Unlike ligaments, which connect bones to other bones, tendons connect muscles to bones. Common tendons include the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and the patellar tendon, which connects the quadriceps muscle to the patella (kneecap).

Workers' compensation insurance provides medical care and financial benefits for employees who suffer job-related accidents or illnesses. This type of insurance is designed to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages resulting from work-related injuries or conditions, ensuring that employees receive the necessary care and support during their recovery.

References:

Workers' Compensation Law by Lex K. Larson

National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) Guidelines

Persons incapable of forming melanin are called albino. Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by a lack of melanin pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes, leading to very light skin and hair, and vision problems. The condition results from mutations in genes involved in the production of melanin.

References:

Genetics and Pathophysiology of Albinism by David C. Bennett and Dorothy C. Cooper

Clinical Dermatology by Thomas P. Habif

Thebrainstemis the subdivision of the brain that consists of the medulla, pons, and midbrain. It is located between the spinal cord and the cerebrum and plays a crucial role in regulating vital life functions such as heart rate, breathing, and sleep cycles. The brainstem acts as a conduit for all the information passing between the brain and the rest of the body.

Aminortypically cannot legally act as an agent for another patient, including their younger siblings, because they are not considered legally competent to make medical decisions. A parent or a legal guardian can act as an agent for a child or a ward, as they have the legal authority to make healthcare decisions on their behalf.

When a patient must cancel an appointment, it is appropriate to express regret and immediately schedule another appointment. This approach maintains a professional and empathetic relationshipwith the patient, ensuring continuity of care. Reprimanding the patient or refusing to re-book another appointment can damage the patient-provider relationship and is not considered professional behavior. Instead, expressing regret acknowledges the inconvenience while rescheduling ensures the patient’s medical needs are still met.

If a patient calls the office stating they have received a blunt injury to the eye, it is essential to advise them tocome in as soon as possible to have the eye checked. Eye injuries can lead to serious complications, including vision loss, if not promptly evaluated and treated by a healthcare professional. Delaying treatment or improper self-care, such as applying heat or rubbing the eye, can exacerbate the injury.

Do nothing unless the eye is very swollen: Incorrect, as internal damage may occur without visible swelling.

Apply heat: Incorrect, as it may worsen inflammation.

Rub the eye to be sure there is nothing in it: Incorrect, as it can cause further injury.

Hepatitisis inflammation of theliver. It can be caused by viral infections, alcohol abuse, certain medications, and other factors. Hepatitis can lead to symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and liver damage if left untreated.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, medical pathology references.

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Tendonitisis an inflamed condition of the tendon and tendon muscles. It is often caused by overuse or injury and can result in pain, swelling, and impaired movement. Common areas affected by tendonitis include the shoulders, elbows, wrists, and heels.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, musculoskeletal disorder references.

When using a microscope with a 10X ocular lens and a 40X objective lens in place, the total magnification is400X. This is calculated by multiplying the magnification of the ocular lens by the magnification of the objective lens (10X * 40X = 400X).

In order to inflate the blood pressure cuff, the valve isnot turnedinitially, meaning it should be closed to build up pressure. Once the cuff is inflated to the desired level, the valve is then gradually opened (usually turned counter-clockwise) to slowly release the air and measure the blood pressure.

References:

American Heart Association. (n.d.). How to Measure Blood Pressure Using a Manual Monitor.

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Blood Pressure Test.

When a venipuncture is performed using a lavender top vacutainer tube, the sample is commonly used for hematology testing, such as complete blood counts (CBC). The lavender top tube contains an anticoagulant called EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), which prevents the blood from clotting. This allows for the preservation of the cellular components of the blood for accurate hematological analysis.

References:

Clinical Laboratory Science: The Basics and Routine Techniques by Jean Jorgenson Linné

Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley

The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, providing a protective barrier against environmental damage from pathogens, UV radiation, and water loss. It is composed of multiple layers of keratinocytes, which produce the protein keratin, giving the skin its strength and resilience. The epidermis is avascular (contains no blood vessels) and relies on the dermis for nutrient and waste exchange. The outermost layer of the epidermis, the stratum corneum, consists of dead, flattened cells that are continuously shed and replaced by new cells from the deeper layers.

Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. It is essential for growth, development, and tissue repair in multicellular organisms. Mitosis consists of several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, followed by cytokinesis, which divides the cytoplasm and organelles into two daughter cells. Unlike meiosis, which produces four genetically diverse gametes (sperm or egg cells), mitosis ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.

Agoiteris a visible swelling of the thyroid gland. This enlargement can occur due to various causes, including iodine deficiency, autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease, and nodular thyroid disease. It may present as a uniform enlargement (diffuse goiter) or an irregular one with nodules (nodular goiter).Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, endocrinology textbooks.