Clinical Patient Care Flashcards
7 cards from real AAMA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Clinical Patient Care flashcards as text
A medical assistant is assisting with a pelvic examination. Which position should be used?
Answer: Lithotomy
The lithotomy position, with the patient on their back with feet in stirrups, provides optimal access for pelvic and gynecological examinations.
A patient is prescribed metformin for type 2 diabetes. Which critical lab value must be checked before administering or continuing this medication?
Answer: Serum creatinine/renal function
Metformin is contraindicated in significant renal impairment because it can accumulate and cause lactic acidosis.
What is the proper technique for collecting a midstream clean-catch urine specimen?
Answer: Clean the area, void a small amount, then collect the midstream portion
The midstream clean-catch technique reduces contamination by cleaning the urethral area and discarding initial urine before collecting the sample.
When taking an oral temperature on an adult, how long should the thermometer remain in place if using a glass mercury-free thermometer?
Answer: 3–5 minutes
A glass thermometer requires 3–5 minutes under the tongue to ensure accurate temperature equilibration.
Which of the following correctly describes the Z-track injection technique?
Answer: Pulling the skin laterally before injection and releasing after needle withdrawal
The Z-track method displaces the skin to create a zigzag track upon needle withdrawal, preventing medication from leaking into subcutaneous tissue.
A patient presents with a blood glucose reading of 52 mg/dL. The patient is conscious and able to swallow. What is the appropriate first action?
Answer: Give the patient 15–20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates
For a conscious hypoglycemic patient, the 15-15 rule calls for giving 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates and rechecking glucose in 15 minutes.
A patient receiving an intramuscular injection suddenly becomes pale, diaphoretic, and faint. What condition should the medical assistant suspect?
Answer: Vasovagal syncope
Vasovagal syncope (fainting) is a common response to injections caused by a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure triggered by the vagus nerve.