First Aid and Emergency Procedures Flashcards
6 cards from real RMA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 First Aid and Emergency Procedures flashcards as text
A patient collapses in the waiting room and is unresponsive with no normal breathing. What is the FIRST action the medical assistant should take?
Answer: Call for help and activate the emergency response system (call 911)
The first priority when an unresponsive patient is found is to call for help and activate the emergency response system (dial 911 or call a code), then begin CPR and retrieve the AED.
Which of the following is a sign of anaphylaxis that requires immediate administration of epinephrine?
Answer: Generalized urticaria (hives), throat tightness, and difficulty breathing after eating
Generalized hives combined with throat tightness and difficulty breathing after an exposure are classic signs of anaphylaxis — a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction requiring immediate intramuscular epinephrine.
What is the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio for adult CPR with a single rescuer?
Answer: 30:2
Current AHA guidelines recommend a 30:2 compression-to-ventilation ratio for single-rescuer adult CPR — 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.
A patient in the medical office develops syncope (fainting). After ensuring they have not injured themselves, what is the most appropriate initial action?
Answer: Position the patient supine with legs elevated (Trendelenburg-like position) to improve cerebral blood flow
For simple vasovagal syncope, positioning the patient supine (lying flat) with legs elevated increases venous return to the heart and improves blood flow to the brain, typically restoring consciousness quickly.
When treating a patient with an arterial bleed from a laceration on the forearm, which method of hemorrhage control should be used first?
Answer: Apply direct pressure with a clean or sterile cloth or bandage
Direct pressure applied firmly to the wound is the first and most effective method for controlling active external bleeding, including arterial bleeds, before considering other measures.
Which of the following is the correct procedure when a medical assistant suspects a patient is experiencing a stroke?
Answer: Use the FAST acronym to assess symptoms and call 911 immediately
When stroke is suspected, the medical assistant should use the FAST assessment (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911) and immediately activate emergency medical services without delay.