NRCMA Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant Questions and Answers

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.

Glaucomais a condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure, which can damage the optic nerve and result in vision loss or blindness if not treated. The increased pressure is usually due to a buildup of aqueous humor in the eye, either from overproduction or blocked drainage channels.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, ophthalmology textbooks.

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.

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.

When applying a cast,plaster is applied over a stockinetteand padding to protect the skin and provide comfort. The stockinette is a soft, stretchable fabric sleeve that prevents direct contact between the plaster and the skin. The padding, often made of cotton or synthetic materials, cushions the area and absorbs any moisture. The other options are incorrect and can lead to complications such as skin irritation or pressure sores.

The purpose of applying paste or jelly when running anEKG (Electrocardiogram)is toreduce skin resistance. This conductive gel ensures better conductivity between the skin and the electrodes, resulting in a clearer and more accurate recording of the heart's electrical activity. Without the gel, poor contact can lead to high resistance and artifacts in the EKG trace.

References:

Thaler, M. S. (2018). The Only EKG Book You'll Ever Need (9th ed.). Wolters Kluwer

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.

An unacceptable procedure for a fainting victim is topour water over the victim’s face. This action can cause further distress and does not address the underlying cause of fainting. Instead, appropriate measures include loosening tight clothing, checking for injuries, and keeping the victim lying down until they recover.

References:

American Heart Association. (n.d.). First Aid Guidelines.

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Fainting: First Aid.

TheFood and Drug Administration (FDA)is the U.S. governmental agency responsible for enforcing laws and regulations related to the manufacture, marketing, and clinical use of drugs, medical devices, and food products. The FDA ensures that these products are safe, effective, and properly labeled.

National Formulary: A publication that lists medications and their standards.

The Department of Health: General reference to various health departments, not specifically responsible for drug enforcement.

National Drug Abuse Administration: Not a correct agency name; it might refer to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) or the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

When a small sample of tissue is taken from the body and sent to a clinical laboratory to be examined or studied, it is called a biopsy. Biopsies are performed to diagnose diseases, such as cancer, by analyzing tissue samples under a microscope. This procedure provides critical information about the presence and extent of diseases.

References:

Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease

The Bethesda System for Reporting Cervical Cytology

One who studies disease is apathologist. Pathologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing diseases by examining tissues, cells, and organs. They play a crucial role in diagnosing diseases, guiding treatment decisions, and conducting research to understand disease mechanisms.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, medical profession descriptions.

When you are asked to take a cervical x-ray, you would take film of the neck region. Cervical x-rays are used to examine the cervical vertebrae, which are the seven vertebrae in the neck. These x-rays help diagnose fractures, dislocations, and other conditions affecting the cervical spine.

References:

Radiologic Science for Technologists by Stewart C. Bushong

Essentials of Radiographic Physics and Imaging by James Johnston and Terri L. Fauber

A patient who is 68 years old is most likely covered by Medicare. Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States primarily for people aged 65 and older, but it also covers some younger individuals with disabilities or specific diseases. Medicare consists of different parts that cover hospital insurance (Part A), medical insurance (Part B), and prescription drugs (Part D).

Hemostats are a type of forceps. They are surgical instruments used to control bleeding during surgery by clamping blood vessels. Hemostats can be locked in place to maintain constant pressure on a bleeding site, allowing the surgeon to work on other areas.

References:

Surgical Instruments: A Pocket Guide by Maryann Papanier Wells

Textbook of Surgery by David C. Sabiston

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

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

Epilepsyis a seizure disorder affecting 1 to 2 percent of the population and is associated with abnormal electrical impulses from the neurons in the brain. These abnormal impulses cause recurrent, unprovoked seizures. The severity and type of seizures can vary widely among individuals, ranging from brief lapses in attention or muscle jerks to severe and prolonged convulsions. Diagnosis typically involves an electroencephalogram (EEG) to detect abnormal brain activity, along with imaging tests like MRI or CT scans.

References:

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). (n.d.). Epilepsy Information Page.

Epilepsy Foundation. (n.d.). About Epilepsy: The Basics.

The incorrectly spelled words are:

Annorcxlashould beAnorexia

Oitltlsshould beOtitis

Legdcrshould beLedger

Metabolismis correctly spelled.

The words"Annorexia","Oititis", and"Legder"are incorrectly spelled. The correct spellings are:

Anorexia- An eating disorder characterized by an abnormally low body weight and an intense fear of gaining weight.

Otitis- Inflammation or infection of the ear.

Ledger- A book or other collection of financial accounts.

References:

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

Merriam-Webster Medical Dictionary.

Serum is the clear, yellowish fluid that remains after blood has clotted and the clot has been removed. It is essentially plasma without the clotting factors (like fibrinogen). Serum can be separated from clotted blood and is used for various blood chemistry tests, but not typically for most hematology tests, which require whole blood or plasma.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, clinical laboratory textbooks.

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

The termintercostalrefers to the anatomical locationbetween the ribs. "Inter-" means between, and "costal" pertains to the ribs. The intercostal muscles, for example, are muscles located between the ribs that play a key role in the respiratory process by aiding in the expansion and contraction of the thoracic cavity.

References:

Moore, K. L., Dalley, A. F., & Agur, A. M. R. (2013). Clinically Oriented Anatomy (7th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.

Tortora, G. J., & Derrickson, B. (2017).Principles of Anatomy and Physiology (15th ed.). Wiley.

A critical illness resulting in thesudden cessation of kidney functionis known asrenal failure. Acute renal failure, or acute kidney injury, can occur suddenly and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. It requires immediate medical intervention to restore kidney function and maintain overall health.

Asthma attacks can be precipitated by various factors including volatile irritants from organic solvents, inhalation of cold air, and exposure to mists and dusts in industrial plants. These triggers can cause bronchoconstriction and inflammation in individuals with asthma, leading to difficulty in breathing and other symptoms. Identifying and avoiding these triggers is a critical part of asthma management.

References:

Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) Guidelines

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

Auscultation is a clinical procedure used to listen to the internal sounds of a patient's body, typically the heart, lungs, and gastrointestinal system. This process is performed using a stethoscope. The stethoscope is an essential medical instrument that amplifies the internal sounds, allowing healthcare providers to assess the function and condition of these organs. During auscultation, the healthcare provider places the diaphragm or bell of the stethoscope on the patient's skin to listen for normal and abnormal sounds, such as heart murmurs, lung crackles, or bowel sounds. This method is crucial for diagnosing conditions like respiratory infections, cardiovascular disorders, and gastrointestinal issues.

Using a percussion hammer, otoscope, or speculum would not be appropriate for auscultation. A percussion hammer is used to test reflexes, an otoscope is used to examine the ears, and a speculum is used to inspect body cavities like the vagina or nasal passages. Therefore, the stethoscope is the correct and verified tool for auscultation.

Eczemais an inflammatory condition of the skin that usually causes itching and can be accompanied by scaling, blisters, or other symptoms. It can be chronic and is often related to an allergic response or other irritants.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, dermatology textbooks.

Vitamin Kis necessary for the proper clotting of the blood. It is essential for the synthesis of proteins required for blood coagulation and for binding calcium in bones and other tissues. Deficiency in vitamin K can lead to increased bleeding and bruising.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, nutrition and biochemistry references.

Thelithotomy positionis used when a patient is having avaginal examination. In this position, the patient lies on their back with their hips and knees flexed, and their feet placed in stirrups. This position provides the best access for pelvic and vaginal examinations, as well as certain surgical procedures.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, clinical examination guidelines.

The first step in demonstrating courtesy to a telephone caller involves promptly answering the call. Once answered, it's important to clearly identify yourself and your role, followed by inquiring how you can assist the caller. This approach shows respect, acknowledges the caller, and sets a professional tone for the conversation. It's critical to avoid immediately putting the caller on hold, as this can be perceived as dismissive. Additionally, if you must place the caller on hold at any point, it’s courteous to ask for their permission and provide a brief explanation. Proper telephone etiquette is essential in medical settings to ensure clear communication and patient satisfaction.

The latest date an employer may give the employee theW-2 formisby January 31stof the following year. This form reports an employee's annual wages and the amount of taxes withheld from their paycheck, which is necessary for the employee to complete their annual tax return.

Palpationis done byfeeling a part with the hand. It is a technique used by healthcare providers to examine the body through touch to assess the size, shape, firmness, or location of a structure. Palpation is commonly used in physical examinations to detect abnormalities such as swelling, tenderness, or lumps.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, clinical examination techniques.

Ultrasound should not be used for tumors. While ultrasound is effective for diagnosing and monitoring many conditions, it is not typically used as a treatment for tumors. Other modalities like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy are used for tumor treatment.

Tissues are composed of cells. A tissue is a group of similar cells that perform a specific function. There are four primary types of tissues in the human body: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues. Each type of tissue has a distinct structure and function that contributes to the overall physiology of the body.

References:

Junqueira's Basic Histology: Text and Atlas by Anthony L. Mescher

Human Anatomy & Physiology by Elaine N. Marieb and Katja Hoehn

A simple sugar to which all forms of carbohydrates are ultimately converted isglucose. Glucose is the primary source of energy for the body's cells and is transported in the blood to be used immediately or stored for later use. Carbohydrates from foods are broken down into glucose during digestion.

References:

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (n.d.). Carbohydrates and Blood Sugar.

Lehninger, A. L., Nelson, D. L., & Cox, M. M. (2017). Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry (7th ed.). W.H. Freeman.

Poikilocytosis refers to the variation in the shape of red blood cells. This condition is usually detected through a blood smear examination and can indicate various types of anemia and other blood disorders. Poikilocytes are abnormally shaped red blood cells, and their presence can suggest underlying health issues that need further investigation.

References:

Robbins Basic Pathology, 10th Edition, Vinay Kumar, Abul K. Abbas, and Jon C. Aster

American Society of Hematology, Blood Disorders Overview

Anticoagulantsare medications that prevent blood from clotting. They are commonly prescribed for conditions like atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism to prevent the formation of harmful clots. Examples of anticoagulants include warfarin, heparin, and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs).

Analgesics: Used to relieve pain.

Tranquilizers: Used to reduce anxiety or induce sleep.

Thepancreasis the organ responsible for secreting insulin directly into the bloodstream. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells for energy production or storage as glycogen. The pancreas contains clusters of cells known as the islets of Langerhans, which include beta cells that produce insulin.

Gallbladder: Stores bile produced by the liver.

Colon: Part of the large intestine, involved in water absorption and feces formation.

Liver: Produces bile, detoxifies substances, and stores glycogen, but does not produce insulin.

Blood type O negative is considered the universal donor because it can be transfused to patients of any blood type. This is due to the absence of A and B antigens on the surface of red blood cells, which reduces the risk of an immune reaction. However, type O negative individuals can only receive blood from other O negative donors. Universal donors are crucial in emergency situations where there may not be time to determine the recipient's blood type. Type AB positive is considered the universal recipient because individuals with this blood type can receive red blood cells from any blood type.

Lipidsis the scientific term for fats. They are a broad group of naturally occurring molecules that include fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble vitamins, and others. Lipids are essential for storing energy, signaling, and acting as structural components of cell membranes. The other options are related to different substances:

Lactose: A sugar found in milk.

Lipoproteins: Complexes of lipids and proteins that transport lipids through the bloodstream.

Lacteals: Lymphatic vessels in the small intestine that absorb fats.

Vitamin D is essential for the body's ability to absorb calcium from the diet. It promotes the absorption of calcium in the gut and maintains adequate serum calcium and phosphate concentrations to enable normal mineralization of bone. Without sufficient vitamin D, bones can become thin, brittle, or misshapen. Vitamin D is obtained from exposure to sunlight, dietary sources (such as fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and eggs), and supplements. It is converted in the skin to its active form, calcitriol, which facilitates calcium absorption in the intestines.

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.

A patient with a rapid pulse hastachycardia. Tachycardia is defined as a heart rate that exceeds the normal resting rate, typically over 100 beats per minute in adults. It can result from various factors including stress, exercise, or medical conditions.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, cardiology references.

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

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).

Neoplasm refers to a new growth of tissue, which can be benign or malignant. It is an abnormal proliferation of cells, and when malignant, it is commonly referred to as cancer. The term encompasses a wide range of growths and tumors, varying in behavior, treatment, and prognosis.

References:

Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease

Cancer Biology by Raymond W. Ruddon

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

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 word part "peri" means around. It is used in medical terminology to describe structures or conditions surrounding a specific area, such as "pericardium" (around the heart) or "peripheral" (around the edge of an area).

References:

Medical Terminology: A Short Course by Davi-Ellen Chabner

Stedman's Medical Dictionary

Relapse refers to the return of symptoms or worsening of a condition after a period of improvement. It does not refer to systolic pressure. A relapse indicates that a disease or condition that was previously under control has become active again, which can happen in chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis, cancer, or addiction.

References:

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine

Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary

Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels in the human body, typically measuring between 5 to 10 micrometers in diameter. They form a network between the arterioles and venules and are the site of the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between the blood and tissues. This extensive network ensures that every cell in the body is in close proximity to a capillary, facilitating efficient physiological exchange processes.

References:

Gray's Anatomy

Clinical Hematology and Fundamentals of Hemostasis

Pathologyis the study of disease, including its causes, processes, development, and consequences. Pathologists examine tissues, organs, bodily fluids, and autopsies to understand disease mechanisms and assist in diagnosis and treatment. The field encompasses several branches, such as clinical pathology, anatomical pathology, and forensic pathology.

Study of paths: Not relevant in medical terminology.

Process of disease: Part of pathology but not a complete definition.

Remission of disease: Refers to the reduction or disappearance of symptoms, not the study.

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.

Hydrochloric acid (HCl)is a substance produced by the stomach lining. It plays a crucial role in digestion by creating an acidic environment, which helps in the breakdown of food, activates digestive enzymes like pepsin, and kills harmful bacteria ingested with food. The other options are:

Glycogen: A stored form of glucose found in the liver and muscles, not directly involved in digestion.

Insulin: A hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels, not involved in digestion in the stomach.

Glucose: A simple sugar that is an end product of carbohydrate digestion, not a substance produced by the stomach.

Metastasis refers to the growth of cancer cells from one tissue to another. This process involves the spread of cancer cells through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to distant sites in the body, forming new tumors. Metastasis is a hallmark of advanced cancer and significantly impacts prognosis and treatment strategies.

References:

The Biology of Cancer by Robert A. Weinberg

Cancer: Principles & Practice of Oncology by Vincent T. DeVita, Jr., Theodore S. Lawrence, and Steven A. Rosenberg

The facial bones that compose the massive upper jawbones are called the maxillary bones. These bones form the upper jaw and hold the upper teeth. They also play a crucial role in the formation of the orbits of the eyes, the nasal cavity, and the hard palate. The maxillary bones are key structures in the facial skeleton, contributing to both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the face.

References:

Gray's Anatomy

Essentials of Human Anatomy & Physiology by Elaine N. Marieb

Incorrect information given that may injure the reputation of another is calledslander. Slander is a form of defamation that involves making false spoken statements that harm someone's reputation. It differs from libel, which involves written or published defamatory statements.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, legal and ethical guidelines in healthcare.

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.