Medical Knowledge and Clinical Procedures Flashcards

Which of the following is the correct technique for performing a capillary puncture on an adult finger?

Answer: Puncture the lateral side of the fingertip

The lateral (side) surface of the fingertip has fewer nerve endings and better blood flow than the central pad, making it the preferred site.

Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is ALWAYS required when handling any blood or body fluid specimen?

Answer: Gloves

Gloves are always required as standard precaution when handling blood or body fluid specimens to prevent exposure.

What does a positive result on a rapid strep test indicate?

Answer: Presence of Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes)

Rapid strep tests detect Group A Streptococcus antigens, the causative agent of streptococcal pharyngitis.

A patient is prescribed a medication with the instruction 'TID ac.' What does this mean?

Answer: Three times daily before meals

TID means three times daily, and 'ac' is the abbreviation for 'ante cibum,' meaning before meals.

Which of the following positions is used for a patient undergoing a proctoscopic examination?

Answer: Knee-chest (genupectoral)

The knee-chest position allows optimal visualization of the rectum and lower colon during proctoscopic procedures.

When preparing a sterile field, a medical assistant accidentally touches the sterile drape with an ungloved hand. The correct action is to:

Answer: Discard the drape and establish a new sterile field

Any break in sterile technique contaminates the entire sterile field; the drape must be discarded and a new sterile field established.

Which of the following findings on a urinalysis dipstick is considered abnormal and warrants further investigation?

Answer: Trace glucose

Glucose should not be detectable in urine; a positive glucose reading may indicate diabetes mellitus or renal glycosuria.