Question #1
If a patient makes his/her condition worse by ignoring medical advice, that may be considered __________.
- A . Patient negligence
- B . Contributory negligence
- C . Patient malpractice
- D . Secondary malpractice
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
When a patient ignores medical advice, for example does not take prescribed drugs, and so makes his/her condition worse, that may be considered contributory negligence. This means some responsibility for the deterioration lies with the patient, and may count in favor of a medical practitioner in a lawsuit.
B
Explanation:
When a patient ignores medical advice, for example does not take prescribed drugs, and so makes his/her condition worse, that may be considered contributory negligence. This means some responsibility for the deterioration lies with the patient, and may count in favor of a medical practitioner in a lawsuit.
Question #2
Which of these can be reported to relevant authorities without a patient’s consent?
- A . HIV status
- B . Illegal narcotics in bloodstream
- C . Gunshot wound
- D . Blood alcohol level
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
In most circumstances the right of the patient to confidentiality is paramount. That means his/her consent to confidential information being released must be obtained.
However, in the case of gunshot wounds, information may be passed to law enforcement agencies even if the patient should not wish this to happen.
C
Explanation:
In most circumstances the right of the patient to confidentiality is paramount. That means his/her consent to confidential information being released must be obtained.
However, in the case of gunshot wounds, information may be passed to law enforcement agencies even if the patient should not wish this to happen.
Question #3
What should be placed in the top right hand corner in a business letter?
- A . The date
- B . The sender’s address
- C . The recipient’s address
- D . A reference number
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
Business letters should be laid out with the sender’s address at the top right, the recipient’s address below that on the left, any reference number below that, then the date, then the salutation. Obviously if using headed paper with an address on it there is no need to repeat this.
B
Explanation:
Business letters should be laid out with the sender’s address at the top right, the recipient’s address below that on the left, any reference number below that, then the date, then the salutation. Obviously if using headed paper with an address on it there is no need to repeat this.
Question #4
The best passwords for computers are __________.
- A . Random
- B . Simple
- C . Memorable
- D . Short
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Computer passwords are there to protect patient data so they should be as difficult to bypass as possible. Don’t use names, birthdays, favorite teams etc.: use a random string of numbers, symbols and letters. Try to memorize it rather than writing it down. Change your password as often as your systems administrator recommends.
A
Explanation:
Computer passwords are there to protect patient data so they should be as difficult to bypass as possible. Don’t use names, birthdays, favorite teams etc.: use a random string of numbers, symbols and letters. Try to memorize it rather than writing it down. Change your password as often as your systems administrator recommends.
Question #5
If a patient cancels an appointment it is essential that you __________.
- A . Check if they need to reschedule
- B . Bill them for the cancelled appointment
- C . Remove their record from the database
- D . Mark their record as closed
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
A patient may cancel an appointment for many reasons and sometimes may forget to reschedule, which could result in them missing vital treatment. Always ask if they need to reschedule and if in doubt consult with the appropriate physician.
A
Explanation:
A patient may cancel an appointment for many reasons and sometimes may forget to reschedule, which could result in them missing vital treatment. Always ask if they need to reschedule and if in doubt consult with the appropriate physician.
Question #6
Which of these is most important when dealing with medical records?
- A . Accessibility
- B . Confidentiality
- C . Legibility
- D . Availability
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
All of these elements are important, but when dealing with medical records confidentiality is paramount. Always make sure that records are not being disclosed to an unauthorized entity, and check with the office handbook and other staff when in doubt.
B
Explanation:
All of these elements are important, but when dealing with medical records confidentiality is paramount. Always make sure that records are not being disclosed to an unauthorized entity, and check with the office handbook and other staff when in doubt.
Question #7
Which of these is the only one entitled to immediate access to patient medical records?
- A . The patient’s physician
- B . The patient’s lawyer
- C . Law enforcement officials
- D . The patient’s insurance company
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
All of these entities are entitled to patient medical records under certain circumstances and if all proper conditions have been fulfilled. The patient’s physician is the only one of these who is entitled to immediate access.
A
Explanation:
All of these entities are entitled to patient medical records under certain circumstances and if all proper conditions have been fulfilled. The patient’s physician is the only one of these who is entitled to immediate access.
Question #8
Which of these is the only risk a computer cable may not present?
- A . Flood risk
- B . Trip risk
- C . Electrocution risk
- D . Fire risk
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Electrical equipment cables are one of the major causes of workplace accidents. They should be regularly inspected to make sure there is no fraying of the outer casing, which could cause electrocution or fire, and careful attention must be paid to their routing: ideally all cables should travel through secure housing to ensure they cannot cause a trip risk.
A
Explanation:
Electrical equipment cables are one of the major causes of workplace accidents. They should be regularly inspected to make sure there is no fraying of the outer casing, which could cause electrocution or fire, and careful attention must be paid to their routing: ideally all cables should travel through secure housing to ensure they cannot cause a trip risk.
Question #9
Who should explain the costs of their care to a patient?
- A . The physician
- B . The nurse
- C . The insurance company
- D . The administrative staff
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
Medical staff are not expected to explain care costs to a patient, this is the job of administrative staff. If this is part of your job, you should be aware that it is vital that a patient understands all costs involved and any alternatives that may be available to them.
D
Explanation:
Medical staff are not expected to explain care costs to a patient, this is the job of administrative staff. If this is part of your job, you should be aware that it is vital that a patient understands all costs involved and any alternatives that may be available to them.
Question #10
Under what circumstances should a patient’s blood be considered infective or infectious?
- A . If the patient is homeless
- B . If the patient is an intravenous drug user
- C . If the patient is from sub Saharan Africa
- D . In all circumstances
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
No matter what a patient’s individual status or why they are in hospital, their blood should always be handled as if it has the potential to cause infection. Exactly the same procedures must be followed when taking and handling blood from every patient.
D
Explanation:
No matter what a patient’s individual status or why they are in hospital, their blood should always be handled as if it has the potential to cause infection. Exactly the same procedures must be followed when taking and handling blood from every patient.
Question #11
Which of these fluids presents the greatest risk of HIV infection to medical workers?
- A . Saliva
- B . Blood
- C . Semen
- D . Mucus
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
Blood is the most likely way for a medical worker to become accidentally contaminated with HIV. Although HIV can be spread accidentally in other ways, it is very difficult to become infected through saliva and mucus.
B
Explanation:
Blood is the most likely way for a medical worker to become accidentally contaminated with HIV. Although HIV can be spread accidentally in other ways, it is very difficult to become infected through saliva and mucus.
Question #12
What is a centrifuge used for in phlebotomy?
- A . Separating blood
- B . Freezing blood
- C . Sterilizing blood
- D . Disposing of blood
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
When blood has been drawn from a patient, it is often put through a centrifuge before testing. This separates blood cells from the liquid (plasma) in which they are suspended, so they can be more easily counted and tested.
A
Explanation:
When blood has been drawn from a patient, it is often put through a centrifuge before testing. This separates blood cells from the liquid (plasma) in which they are suspended, so they can be more easily counted and tested.
Question #13
When drawing blood from a patient, you can make the veins in their arm become more prominent by asking them to __________.
- A . Point their arm towards the floor
- B . Breathe rapidly
- C . Hold their breath
- D . Clench their fist
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
When a patient clenches their fist the amount of blood flowing into the hand is temporarily decreased by
the contraction and so blood builds up further up the arm, making veins more prominent and so easier to see.
D
Explanation:
When a patient clenches their fist the amount of blood flowing into the hand is temporarily decreased by
the contraction and so blood builds up further up the arm, making veins more prominent and so easier to see.
Question #14
To ensure accuracy in testing all equipment must be properly __________.
- A . Calibrated
- B . Cleaned
- C . Catalogued
- D . Costed
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
However accurate a testing apparatus may be, it will not produce a correct result unless it has been calibrated properly prior to use. Always check apparatus is properly calibrated using manufacturer instructions, and regularly recheck calibration throughout testing.
A
Explanation:
However accurate a testing apparatus may be, it will not produce a correct result unless it has been calibrated properly prior to use. Always check apparatus is properly calibrated using manufacturer instructions, and regularly recheck calibration throughout testing.
Question #15
Some simple tests fall under waivers from __________ bodies.
- A . AMA
- B . FDA
- C . CLIA
- D . SMB
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
A number of simple tests fall under the provisions of the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments 1988; these are tests that are judged to be simple enough to be performed by staff with basic training or even at home. This does not mean that they are immune to error or that error could not have serious diagnostic consequences; the same amount of care should be taken with them as with any other testing procedure.
C
Explanation:
A number of simple tests fall under the provisions of the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments 1988; these are tests that are judged to be simple enough to be performed by staff with basic training or even at home. This does not mean that they are immune to error or that error could not have serious diagnostic consequences; the same amount of care should be taken with them as with any other testing procedure.
Question #16
In order to prescribe controlled substances a medical practitioner needs a license from __________.
- A . The FDA
- B . The DEA
- C . The FBI
- D . The AMA
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
A license from the DEA is required for all persons prescribing controlled substances. The license lasts for three years (though it can be taken away at any time for malpractice) and costs $731.
B
Explanation:
A license from the DEA is required for all persons prescribing controlled substances. The license lasts for three years (though it can be taken away at any time for malpractice) and costs $731.
Question #17
If a patient has a problem such as deep-vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism they may need a drug to stop the blood thickening, this is called an __________.
- A . Antihistamine
- B . Antipsychotic
- C . Antitussive
- D . Anticoagulant
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
When a patient’s blood is clotting too quickly, which can cause DVT or pulmonary embolism, they may need an anticoagulant to slow this process. Common anticoagulants include Coumadin (aka Warfarin) and Heparin.
D
Explanation:
When a patient’s blood is clotting too quickly, which can cause DVT or pulmonary embolism, they may need an anticoagulant to slow this process. Common anticoagulants include Coumadin (aka Warfarin) and Heparin.
Question #18
A normal pulse rate for a healthy adult should be between __________.
- A . 60C100 BPM
- B . 50C110 BPM
- C . 70C90 BPM
- D . 80C120 BPM
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
The normal range for the pulse rate of a healthy adult is between 60C100 beats per minute. Any pulse rate outside this range should be reported to a physician.
However, you should be aware that a pulse rate outside this range can still be healthy, for example a very fit athlete may have a pulse rate as low as 40 BPM.
A
Explanation:
The normal range for the pulse rate of a healthy adult is between 60C100 beats per minute. Any pulse rate outside this range should be reported to a physician.
However, you should be aware that a pulse rate outside this range can still be healthy, for example a very fit athlete may have a pulse rate as low as 40 BPM.
Question #19
Which of these is the most common and effective place to read a pulse?
- A . Carotid artery
- B . Femoral artery
- C . Radial artery
- D . Brachial artery
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
The pulse is usually measured from the radial artery, on the side of the wrist nearest the thumb.
However, if there are reasons preventing taking a reading from here (for example if the patient has both wrists in casts) there are other points from which the pulse may be taken.
C
Explanation:
The pulse is usually measured from the radial artery, on the side of the wrist nearest the thumb.
However, if there are reasons preventing taking a reading from here (for example if the patient has both wrists in casts) there are other points from which the pulse may be taken.
Question #20
Tachypnea is generally defined as a patient taking more than __________ breaths per minute.
- A . 20
- B . 25
- C . 15
- D . 30
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
A normal healthy adult will take between 12 and 20 breaths per minute. Any more than this is defined as tachypnea and is a cause for concern that should be reported to a physician.
However, you should take external factors into consideration, for example if the patient just climbed stairs to reach the examination, and be aware that newborn infants normally breathe at up to 44 breaths per minute.
A
Explanation:
A normal healthy adult will take between 12 and 20 breaths per minute. Any more than this is defined as tachypnea and is a cause for concern that should be reported to a physician.
However, you should take external factors into consideration, for example if the patient just climbed stairs to reach the examination, and be aware that newborn infants normally breathe at up to 44 breaths per minute.
Question #21
Which of these applies to a person issued with a subpoena in a medical law case?
- A . They must appear in court
- B . They may appear in court if they wish
- C . They do not have to appear in court
- D . They must stay away from the court
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
People may often have reasons to avoid appearing in court cases. This is why courts have the power to issue a subpoena that compels a person or organization to appear and give evidence. Subpoena means, in Latin, “under threat of punishment”, and failure to obey such an order may incur legal penalties.
A
Explanation:
People may often have reasons to avoid appearing in court cases. This is why courts have the power to issue a subpoena that compels a person or organization to appear and give evidence. Subpoena means, in Latin, “under threat of punishment”, and failure to obey such an order may incur legal penalties.
Question #22
Which of these would constitute invasion of privacy if done without consent in a medical context?
- A . Performing a medical procedure on an unconscious person
- B . Reading a person’s prior medical records
- C . Discussing a person’s case with another medical practitioner
- D . Releasing a person’s photograph to the press
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
There are often medical circumstances C for example emergency resuscitation C where a patient’s consent cannot be obtained.
However, even if a patient is unable to give or withhold consent (e.g. if unconscious) private information must not be divulged to third parties. (There are certain very specialized circumstances, e.g. gunshot wounds, where information may be divulged to very specific third party agencies, e.g. law enforcement)
D
Explanation:
There are often medical circumstances C for example emergency resuscitation C where a patient’s consent cannot be obtained.
However, even if a patient is unable to give or withhold consent (e.g. if unconscious) private information must not be divulged to third parties. (There are certain very specialized circumstances, e.g. gunshot wounds, where information may be divulged to very specific third party agencies, e.g. law enforcement)
Question #23
What should the signoff be if a letter is addressed “Dear Sir/Madam,”?
- A . Yours sincerely
- B . Yours faithfully
- C . Kind regards
- D . Any of the above
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
In addressing someone whose name you don’t know, you should always use “Yours sincerely.” “Yours faithfully” should only be used if a letter is addressed to a specific person, and “Kind regards” only for a person you know and have had some positive interaction with previously.
A
Explanation:
In addressing someone whose name you don’t know, you should always use “Yours sincerely.” “Yours faithfully” should only be used if a letter is addressed to a specific person, and “Kind regards” only for a person you know and have had some positive interaction with previously.
Question #24
Computer screens should always be positioned so that __________.
- A . They are accessible to everybody
- B . They can only be seen by the user
- C . They are facing the main part of the office
- D . They are facing the main light source
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
Always make sure that only you or authorized colleagues can see the screen you’re working on. This will minimize the chances of confidential data being accidentally displayed to unauthorized personnel.
B
Explanation:
Always make sure that only you or authorized colleagues can see the screen you’re working on. This will minimize the chances of confidential data being accidentally displayed to unauthorized personnel.
Question #25
At the beginning of each working day, you should check appointments __________.
- A . Against patient records
- B . Against billing schedules
- C . With each team member
- D . With the head of the practice
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
However good an office’s systems may be, it is good practice to check appointments with each team member every day. This ensures that all staff are well prepared and should eliminate double bookings, cancelled appointments etc.
C
Explanation:
However good an office’s systems may be, it is good practice to check appointments with each team member every day. This ensures that all staff are well prepared and should eliminate double bookings, cancelled appointments etc.
Question #26
When a physician asks you to write up their record consultation, you are acting as a __________.
- A . Recordist
- B . Clerk
- C . Transcriptionist
- D . Secretary
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
Medical transcription is often part of a medical assistant’s duties. Special care should be taken with accuracy when undertaking transcription and you should seek the physician’s guidance on any matters that are unclear or terms that you do not understand.
C
Explanation:
Medical transcription is often part of a medical assistant’s duties. Special care should be taken with accuracy when undertaking transcription and you should seek the physician’s guidance on any matters that are unclear or terms that you do not understand.
Question #27
What must include a discharge summary report?
- A . The patient’s financial account
- B . The patient’s final condition
- C . The patient’s insurance details
- D . The patient’s next of kin
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
A discharge summary report may include all of these details, but it is essential that it include details of the patient’s final condition. If this is not provided, ensure you obtain it from the patient’s physician. When this is not properly recorded it could open the way to legal action should the patient develop later complications.
B
Explanation:
A discharge summary report may include all of these details, but it is essential that it include details of the patient’s final condition. If this is not provided, ensure you obtain it from the patient’s physician. When this is not properly recorded it could open the way to legal action should the patient develop later complications.
Question #28
Who is generally responsible for making sure that medical personnel keep their professional status up-todate?
- A . The personnel themselves
- B . The office administrator
- C . The state medical board
- D . All of the above
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
It is vital that all medical personnel are up-to-date with all applicable licenses, certificates etc. A medical office should keep a thorough record of these matters and issue reminders to staff when updates are required; the office itself can be held responsible if it is employing staff whose licenses etc. have lapsed.
B
Explanation:
It is vital that all medical personnel are up-to-date with all applicable licenses, certificates etc. A medical office should keep a thorough record of these matters and issue reminders to staff when updates are required; the office itself can be held responsible if it is employing staff whose licenses etc. have lapsed.
Question #29
For which of these purposes may NOT petty cash be used?
- A . Purchasing office sundries
- B . Advances on staff salaries
- C . Paying excess delivery charges
- D . Paying cab fares for staff on office business
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
Petty cash is the sum of money held in the office to meet immediate office running needs. It should not be used for staff loans or advances on salary; borrowing from petty cash without authorization, even if there is a genuine intention to return the borrowed sum, could be classified as theft.
B
Explanation:
Petty cash is the sum of money held in the office to meet immediate office running needs. It should not be used for staff loans or advances on salary; borrowing from petty cash without authorization, even if there is a genuine intention to return the borrowed sum, could be classified as theft.
Question #30
What is the chance of catching HIV from a single needlestick injury according to the Department of Health?
- A . 3 in 1000
- B . 10 in 1000
- C . 100 in 1000
- D . 200 in 1000
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Although every precaution should be taken to avoid needlestick injury, and treatment should be sought immediately should one occur, the risk of contracting HIV from a needlestick injury is extremely low. The Department of Health calculate the risk, when a medical worker has been stuck with a needle contaminated with HIV+ blood, of contraction as being 0.3%, i.e. it will happen three times in every 1000 incidents.
A
Explanation:
Although every precaution should be taken to avoid needlestick injury, and treatment should be sought immediately should one occur, the risk of contracting HIV from a needlestick injury is extremely low. The Department of Health calculate the risk, when a medical worker has been stuck with a needle contaminated with HIV+ blood, of contraction as being 0.3%, i.e. it will happen three times in every 1000 incidents.
Question #31
Used sharps should be disposed of in __________.
- A . Ordinary trash
- B . Thick plastic bags
- C . Any sealed container
- D . FDA approved containers
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
Every year some institutions will be caught disposing of contaminated sharps in ordinary trash or non-approved containers. This increases the risk of infection for garbage collectors and the general public; never cut corners if it’s your responsibility to dispose of sharps, always insist on an FDA approved container.
D
Explanation:
Every year some institutions will be caught disposing of contaminated sharps in ordinary trash or non-approved containers. This increases the risk of infection for garbage collectors and the general public; never cut corners if it’s your responsibility to dispose of sharps, always insist on an FDA approved container.
Question #32
When taking blood from a newborn baby’s heel, you should not use a lancet longer than __________.
- A . 2.4 mm
- B . 1.8 mm
- C . 2.0 mm
- D . 2.2 mm
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
The recommended longest lancet for taking a blood sample from the heel of a newborn baby is 2.4 mm.
Care should be taken not to take the sample from the back of the heel where the distance from the skin surface to the bone can be as little as 2.33 mm. If in doubt, or if the child is premature or underweight, use a smaller lancet.
A
Explanation:
The recommended longest lancet for taking a blood sample from the heel of a newborn baby is 2.4 mm.
Care should be taken not to take the sample from the back of the heel where the distance from the skin surface to the bone can be as little as 2.33 mm. If in doubt, or if the child is premature or underweight, use a smaller lancet.
Question #33
When choosing a needle for phlebotomy, you must remember that as gauge numbers go up, so the needles get __________.
- A . Shorter
- B . Wider
- C . Narrower
- D . Longer
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
As the gauge number increases so the bore of the needle becomes smaller. Always take special care to select the appropriate needle, or you may cause excessive post-draw bleeding or have to make multiple attempts, both of which will cause distress for your patient.
C
Explanation:
As the gauge number increases so the bore of the needle becomes smaller. Always take special care to select the appropriate needle, or you may cause excessive post-draw bleeding or have to make multiple attempts, both of which will cause distress for your patient.
Question #34
Testing for which of these does not fall under the chain of custody procedures?
- A . Paternity
- B . Evidential DNA
- C . Narcotic urinalysis
- D . Pregnancy
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
Chain of custody procedures must be followed for legally sensitive tests. If you’re involved in such tests make sure that all paperwork is correctly filled and that you have correctly signed off your part of the testing to the next person in the chain.
D
Explanation:
Chain of custody procedures must be followed for legally sensitive tests. If you’re involved in such tests make sure that all paperwork is correctly filled and that you have correctly signed off your part of the testing to the next person in the chain.
Question #35
Which of these is the only factor that does not require consideration when placing electrodes for an ECG test?
- A . Patient scars
- B . Patient ethnicity
- C . Patient piercings
- D . Patient stents
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
An ECG test requires a clear flow between electrodes: any thickening of the skin or metal objects may impede this. Do not place electrodes over piercings, scars or stents or in such a way that these elements may interfere with results.
B
Explanation:
An ECG test requires a clear flow between electrodes: any thickening of the skin or metal objects may impede this. Do not place electrodes over piercings, scars or stents or in such a way that these elements may interfere with results.
Question #36
How is it received if a drug is administered transdermally?
- A . Through the skin
- B . Through the mouth
- C . By injection
- D . By suppository
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Some drugs can be administered transdermally via a patch on the skin. This can be a good option for patients who are frightened of needles and for those requiring a steady release of a drug over time.
A
Explanation:
Some drugs can be administered transdermally via a patch on the skin. This can be a good option for patients who are frightened of needles and for those requiring a steady release of a drug over time.
Question #37
What are drugs designed to cause vomiting called?
- A . Diuretics
- B . Anesthetics
- C . Antibiotics
- D . Emetics
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
Drugs that cause vomiting are called emetics. They are often used for patients who have deliberately or accidentally consumed harmful substances, or substances in harmful doses, e.g. alcohol, painkillers. When administering an emetic remember the process of vomiting may leave the patient dehydrated and take steps to prevent this.
D
Explanation:
Drugs that cause vomiting are called emetics. They are often used for patients who have deliberately or accidentally consumed harmful substances, or substances in harmful doses, e.g. alcohol, painkillers. When administering an emetic remember the process of vomiting may leave the patient dehydrated and take steps to prevent this.
Question #38
Which of these is not part of the measurement of vital signs?
- A . Temperature
- B . Respiration
- C . Pulse
- D . Sweating
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
The monitoring of vital signs comprises monitoring temperature, respiration and pulse.
However, at the same time as monitoring the vital signs any other abnormal signs should be noted, for example excessive sweating, trembling or incoherence, and reported if necessary.
D
Explanation:
The monitoring of vital signs comprises monitoring temperature, respiration and pulse.
However, at the same time as monitoring the vital signs any other abnormal signs should be noted, for example excessive sweating, trembling or incoherence, and reported if necessary.
Question #39
How should this be reported if a patient is displaying any abnormalities in their vital signs?
- A . On the patient chart
- B . To the patient
- C . To a physician
- D . Any of these
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
All abnormalities in vital signs could be crucial indicators that a patient needs immediate treatment. Any abnormalities must be reported to a physician immediately.
C
Explanation:
All abnormalities in vital signs could be crucial indicators that a patient needs immediate treatment. Any abnormalities must be reported to a physician immediately.
Question #40
When taking a patient’s pulse, you should be able to report on __________.
- A . Rhythm
- B . Rate
- C . Force
- D . All of these
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
Taking a patient’s pulse is not simply a matter of counting the beats per minute. You should be able to distinguish between a strong and a weak pulse and to identify any irregularity in the pulse rate (missing beats, sudden acceleration/deceleration etc.).
D
Explanation:
Taking a patient’s pulse is not simply a matter of counting the beats per minute. You should be able to distinguish between a strong and a weak pulse and to identify any irregularity in the pulse rate (missing beats, sudden acceleration/deceleration etc.).
Question #41
What does “respondeat superior” mean in law?
- A . An employer can be held responsible for employee actions
- B . Employers are not responsible for employee actions
- C . Only employers are responsible for employee actions
- D . Employees are the only ones responsible for their actions
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Respondeat superior translates as “let the master answer” and means that an employer can be held responsible for an employee’s actions, provided those actions come under the heading of their employment, for example a clinic may be held accountable for a medical practitioner’s negligence.
However, this does not mean that employees will necessarily escape sanction for malpractice or negligence: both employer and employee can be sanctioned.
A
Explanation:
Respondeat superior translates as “let the master answer” and means that an employer can be held responsible for an employee’s actions, provided those actions come under the heading of their employment, for example a clinic may be held accountable for a medical practitioner’s negligence.
However, this does not mean that employees will necessarily escape sanction for malpractice or negligence: both employer and employee can be sanctioned.
Question #42
Which of these would be best placed under the heading of “medical etiquette”?
- A . The way you talk to a patient
- B . The way you decide on a patient’s treatment
- C . Obeying the law regarding patient confidentiality
- D . The way a patient’s medical fees are calculated
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Medical etiquette refers to what is regarded as socially acceptable behavior for medical practitioners. Examples might be how a patient is spoken to, the body language employed by a medical practitioner etc. Medical etiquette is not as binding as, and is separate from, medical ethics and law, but it is still regarded as a very important part of being a medical practitioner.
A
Explanation:
Medical etiquette refers to what is regarded as socially acceptable behavior for medical practitioners. Examples might be how a patient is spoken to, the body language employed by a medical practitioner etc. Medical etiquette is not as binding as, and is separate from, medical ethics and law, but it is still regarded as a very important part of being a medical practitioner.
Question #43
What is the best way to answer a telephone in a medical office?
- A . With the name of the office
- B . With your name
- C . With the name of the office and your name
- D . With “Hello”
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
When answering a telephone in a formal situation, give both the name of the office/institution and your name: “Smith Clinic, Jane Doe speaking, how can I help?” This lets the caller know they have reached the right place and creates a human relationship between you.
C
Explanation:
When answering a telephone in a formal situation, give both the name of the office/institution and your name: “Smith Clinic, Jane Doe speaking, how can I help?” This lets the caller know they have reached the right place and creates a human relationship between you.
Question #44
New information for the patient database should ideally be added __________.
- A . At the end of the working day
- B . At the end of the working week
- C . Immediately
- D . When no patients are in the office
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
To eliminate errors and omissions, whenever possible new data should be added as it is provided by the patient or other entity. This minimizes the chance of the data being lost or forgotten. If it is not possible immediately to update the database, there should be a procedure in place for safe recording of data manually until the database can be updated.
C
Explanation:
To eliminate errors and omissions, whenever possible new data should be added as it is provided by the patient or other entity. This minimizes the chance of the data being lost or forgotten. If it is not possible immediately to update the database, there should be a procedure in place for safe recording of data manually until the database can be updated.
Question #45
What is a "tickler" system used for?
- A . To interrogate the patient database
- B . To alert staff to database errors
- C . To organize patient billing
- D . To remind patients of appointments
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
"Tickler" systems send out automatic appointment reminders to patients, either through automatically issued letters, emails, SMS or automated telephone calls. There will be a default setting for when and how often these will be sent out, but you should be aware of any patients who for some reason may need more frequent or more personal reminders.
D
Explanation:
"Tickler" systems send out automatic appointment reminders to patients, either through automatically issued letters, emails, SMS or automated telephone calls. There will be a default setting for when and how often these will be sent out, but you should be aware of any patients who for some reason may need more frequent or more personal reminders.
Question #46
Who has ownership of a patient’s medical records?
- A . The care provider
- B . The insurance company
- C . The patient
- D . The state medical board
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Although all the other entities may request copies of the patient’s medical records, they have been created by the care provider (i.e. a medical office, hospital etc.) and remain their property. This means that a care provider is entitled to levy a reasonable charge for the provision of copies of the records.
A
Explanation:
Although all the other entities may request copies of the patient’s medical records, they have been created by the care provider (i.e. a medical office, hospital etc.) and remain their property. This means that a care provider is entitled to levy a reasonable charge for the provision of copies of the records.
Question #47
A patient release is required if you are sending the patient’s medical records to another party using __________ method.
- A . Registered mail
- B . Fax
- C . Motorcycle courier
- D . Hand delivery
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
Fax machines are not regarded as a secure method of communication as misdialing can result in the fax going to unintended recipients; also fax machines are often in public areas and not continually monitored. For this reason you must obtain a patient’s permission if you wish to send their records by fax.
B
Explanation:
Fax machines are not regarded as a secure method of communication as misdialing can result in the fax going to unintended recipients; also fax machines are often in public areas and not continually monitored. For this reason you must obtain a patient’s permission if you wish to send their records by fax.
Question #48
What are MSDS?
- A . Medical student discharge sheets
- B . Material safety data sheets
- C . Medical staff duty sheets
- D . Maintenance staff duty sheets
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) should be kept for all material supplies in a medical office (e.g. biohazardous materials, radioactive materials). They should be regularly updated to show that correct safety procedures are being followed.
B
Explanation:
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) should be kept for all material supplies in a medical office (e.g. biohazardous materials, radioactive materials). They should be regularly updated to show that correct safety procedures are being followed.
Question #49
When making up invoices for insurance companies, ICD numbers should be used.
What does ICD mean?
- A . International classification of diseases
- B . Insurance company demands
- C . Internal cash disbursement
- D . Integral charge document
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
It should always be made clear when billing insurance companies exactly what condition has been treated. The ICD numbers cover all conditions; if unsure of exactly what condition has been treated, consult with the treating physician.
A
Explanation:
It should always be made clear when billing insurance companies exactly what condition has been treated. The ICD numbers cover all conditions; if unsure of exactly what condition has been treated, consult with the treating physician.
Question #50
What does asepsis mean?
- A . Sterile
- B . Free of disease causing agents
- C . Visually clean
- D . All of the above
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
The ideal situation in a medical environment is for it to be sterile, but in practice this is virtually impossible to achieve, as even healthy people carry bacteria with them. Therefore the aim of cleaning procedures in hospitals is to achieve asepsis (which is also used as a term for the procedures), which means there are no disease causing agents present. Medical asepsis such as would be used on a ward aims to reduce the number of disease-causing organisms, whereas surgical asepsis as used in theatre aims to eliminate them.
B
Explanation:
The ideal situation in a medical environment is for it to be sterile, but in practice this is virtually impossible to achieve, as even healthy people carry bacteria with them. Therefore the aim of cleaning procedures in hospitals is to achieve asepsis (which is also used as a term for the procedures), which means there are no disease causing agents present. Medical asepsis such as would be used on a ward aims to reduce the number of disease-causing organisms, whereas surgical asepsis as used in theatre aims to eliminate them.
Question #51
When washing your hands between procedures or duties, if using soap and water you should take at least __________.
- A . 60 seconds
- B . 30 seconds
- C . 40 seconds
- D . 15 seconds
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
In order to ensure your hands are thoroughly clean you should wash them for at least a minute when using soap and water. All parts of the hand should be thoroughly cleaned and rinsed in cold water, dried with a single use towel and you should not touch the faucet with your clean hands when finished.
A
Explanation:
In order to ensure your hands are thoroughly clean you should wash them for at least a minute when using soap and water. All parts of the hand should be thoroughly cleaned and rinsed in cold water, dried with a single use towel and you should not touch the faucet with your clean hands when finished.
Question #52
What must you follow in dealing with a blood sample if you are involved in drug testing?
- A . The chain of custody
- B . Law enforcement instructions
- C . Patient instructions
- D . None of these
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
The chain of custody dictates the way in which a sample will be taken and how it will be guarded against tampering before, during and after testing. Make sure you know the regulations in place and follow them closely, otherwise you may be called upon to explain why you did not.
A
Explanation:
The chain of custody dictates the way in which a sample will be taken and how it will be guarded against tampering before, during and after testing. Make sure you know the regulations in place and follow them closely, otherwise you may be called upon to explain why you did not.
Question #53
The median cubital is the most common vein used for venipuncture.
Where is it?
- A . In the forearm
- B . In the leg
- C . In the stomach
- D . In the neck
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
The median cubital vein is located in the forearm, running through the middle of the crook of the elbow. Always remember that although it is the best vein to use in normal healthy adults, all patients are different and other veins may offer a better opportunity for a successful blood draw.
A
Explanation:
The median cubital vein is located in the forearm, running through the middle of the crook of the elbow. Always remember that although it is the best vein to use in normal healthy adults, all patients are different and other veins may offer a better opportunity for a successful blood draw.
Question #54
A patient may be placed at risk of electrocution during an ECG if you have not ensured that the machine is __________.
- A . Cleaned
- B . Calibrated
- C . Grounded
- D . All of these
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
As an ECG machine passes electricity through a patient every care must be taken to ensure that the patient does not receive an excessive charge. Ensuring the machine is properly grounded means that any accidental charge should be drawn away from the patient.
C
Explanation:
As an ECG machine passes electricity through a patient every care must be taken to ensure that the patient does not receive an excessive charge. Ensuring the machine is properly grounded means that any accidental charge should be drawn away from the patient.
Question #55
During an ECG test you should monitor the patient’s __________.
- A . Breathing
- B . Heart rate
- C . Temperature
- D . All of these
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
All vital signs should be carefully monitored during an ECG test and the test should be suspended or aborted if a patient begins to show obvious signs of distress.
D
Explanation:
All vital signs should be carefully monitored during an ECG test and the test should be suspended or aborted if a patient begins to show obvious signs of distress.
Question #56
Drugs designed for pain relief are designated __________.
- A . Antiseizure
- B . Anti-convulsive
- C . Analgesic
- D . Anti-infective
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
Analgesic drugs are used for pain management. Analgesics can range from mild, e.g. aspirin, to extremely strong, e.g. opiate drugs. They may be either narcotic or nonnarcotic. Care must be taken with all analgesic drugs as they can be damaging or fatal in overdose and many can be addictive.
C
Explanation:
Analgesic drugs are used for pain management. Analgesics can range from mild, e.g. aspirin, to extremely strong, e.g. opiate drugs. They may be either narcotic or nonnarcotic. Care must be taken with all analgesic drugs as they can be damaging or fatal in overdose and many can be addictive.
Question #57
When a medicine is a preparation of oil suspended in fluid it is known as __________.
- A . An emulsion
- B . A suspension
- C . A tincture
- D . A dilution
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Tiny particles of oil suspended in fluid are known as an emulsion. Examples are cod liver oil and castor oil (taken orally) and many types of skin cream.
A
Explanation:
Tiny particles of oil suspended in fluid are known as an emulsion. Examples are cod liver oil and castor oil (taken orally) and many types of skin cream.
Question #58
Which of these is used to drain fluid from the body?
- A . Catheter
- B . Intravenous drip
- C . Injection
- D . All of these
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
A catheter is used to drain fluid from the body. It may be inserted in a body cavity, duct or vein.
A
Explanation:
A catheter is used to drain fluid from the body. It may be inserted in a body cavity, duct or vein.
Question #59
When sterilizing instruments using an autoclave, the machine should be filled with __________.
- A . Boiled water
- B . Distilled water
- C . Tap water
- D . Alcohol
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
Autoclaves must be used with distilled water. Most modern autoclaves have purity sensors that will abort the sterilization procedure if distilled water is not used. Even if your machine does not have a purity sensor, using even boiled water will risk compromising the effectiveness of sterilization and greatly increase the need for cleaning C it may even damage the machine.
B
Explanation:
Autoclaves must be used with distilled water. Most modern autoclaves have purity sensors that will abort the sterilization procedure if distilled water is not used. Even if your machine does not have a purity sensor, using even boiled water will risk compromising the effectiveness of sterilization and greatly increase the need for cleaning C it may even damage the machine.
Question #60
A palpation examination is performed by __________.
- A . Feeling
- B . Striking
- C . Looking
- D . Drawing fluid
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Palpation means to feel for lumps and abnormalities with the fingers, for example feeling to see if any organs are swollen. A palpation examination should be undertaken with great care for the sensitivities of the patient, and what you are doing should be carefully explained beforehand.
A
Explanation:
Palpation means to feel for lumps and abnormalities with the fingers, for example feeling to see if any organs are swollen. A palpation examination should be undertaken with great care for the sensitivities of the patient, and what you are doing should be carefully explained beforehand.