NRCMA Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant Questions and Answers

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.

When focusing the microscope, one should begin with the10Xobjective. This low-power objective lens provides a broad field of view and makes it easier to locate and center the specimen before switching to higher magnification objectives like 40X or 100X.

The medical term for a nosebleed isepistaxis. It refers to bleeding from the nose, which can result from a variety of causes including trauma, dry air, high blood pressure, or underlying medical conditions.

References:

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Nosebleeds (Epistaxis).

The cerebellum is located at the back of the brain, beneath the occipital lobes and behind the brainstem. It plays a crucial role in motor control, particularly in the coordination, precision, and timing of movements. The cerebellum integrates input from the sensory systems, the spinal cord, and other parts of the brain to fine-tune motor activity. It helps maintain balance and posture by coordinating the muscles used for these functions. Damage to the cerebellum can result in loss of coordination (ataxia), tremors, and difficulty with balance and gait.

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

The digestion of fats primarily occurs in the small intestine. Bile produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder is released into the small intestine, where it emulsifies fats, breaking them down into smaller droplets. This process increases the surface area for pancreatic lipase to act on, further breaking down the fats into fatty acids and glycerol which can then be absorbed by the intestinal lining. The small intestine is thus the major site for the digestion and absorption of dietary fats.

References:

Gastrointestinal Physiology by Leonard R. Johnson

Human Physiology: From Cells to Systems by Lauralee Sherwood

The most common combining form in medical terminology is"o". A combining form consists of a root word and a combining vowel, typically "o", which is used to ease pronunciation when adding suffixes or when combining multiple roots.

References:

Chabner, D.-E. (2016). The Language of Medicine (11th ed.). Elsevier.

Cohen, B. J., & DePetris, A. (2013).Medical Terminology: An Illustrated Guide (7th ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

APapanicolaou smear, commonly known as a Pap smear, is a test used todetect cervical cancer. It involves collecting cells from the cervix to look for precancerous or cancerous changes. This test can also detect other cervical abnormalities, such as infections or inflammation, but its primary purpose is early detection of cervical cancer.

Detect abnormal menses: Not related to Pap smears.

Determine fertility: Not related to Pap smears.

Determine pregnancy: Not related to Pap smears.

Persons who are unable to pay for medical care or who have dependent children may apply for Medicaid. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income and resources. It provides benefits not typically covered by Medicare, including long-term care and personal care services.

Hypertension is also referred to as high blood pressure. It is a condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high, which can lead to health problems such as heart disease and stroke. Managing hypertension typically involves lifestyle changes and medication to lower blood pressure to a normal range.

References:

The Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC 7)

American Heart Association Guidelines

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

Physiologyis the scientific study of the functions and mechanisms in a living system. It focuses on how organs and systems within the body work, how they interact, and the physical and chemical processes that occur within living organisms. The other options (study of physical signs, process of life) are not accurate definitions of physiology.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials and standard physiology textbooks.

The most common positions for chest x-rays arePA (posteroanterior) and lateral. These positions provide a comprehensive view of the chest, including the lungs, heart, and bones, and help in diagnosing conditions such as pneumonia, heart failure, and fractures.

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.

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.

Leukocytes, or white blood cells (WBCs), are crucial components of the immune system, protecting the body against infections and foreign invaders. There are several types of leukocytes, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils, each with specific functions in the immune response. Neutrophils, for example, are the first responders to bacterial infections, while lymphocytes (such as T cells and B cells) are involved in adaptive immunity. Thrombocytes (platelets) are involved in blood clotting, erythrocytes (red blood cells) carry oxygen, and osteocytes are bone cells.

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

Prognosis refers to the prediction of the outcome of a disease or medical condition. It involves forecasting the likely course, duration, and outcome of a patient's disease based on the condition's natural history, the patient's health, and the treatment options available. A prognosis can range from good, with full recovery expected, to poor, where complications or fatal outcomes are anticipated.

References:

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine

Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine

Under the Controlled Substance Act, there are five schedules. These schedules classify drugs based on their potential for abuse, accepted medical use, and safety or dependence liability. Schedule I includes drugs with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, while Schedule V includes drugs with a lower potential for abuse relative to substances in Schedule IV and consisting of preparations containing limited quantities of certain narcotics.

References:

Controlled Substances Act - U.S. Department of Justice

Principles of Drug Abuse Treatment for Criminal Justice Populations - National Institute on Drug Abuse

An insurance contract written for a company for its employees is called group coverage. Group insurance provides health, life, or other types of insurance to members of a defined group, typically employees of a company, under a single policy. This type of coverage is generally more affordable and provides uniform benefits to all members of the group.

References:

Health Insurance and Managed Care: What They Are and How They Work by Peter R. Kongstvedt

Employee Benefits Design and Planning: A Guide to Understanding Accounting, Finance, and Tax Implications by Bashker D. Biswas

When using a microscope, the total magnification is calculated by multiplying the magnification power of the ocular lens (eyepiece) by the magnification power of the objective lens. In this case, a 10X ocular lens combined with a 40X objective lens results in a total magnification of400X(10X * 40X = 400X).Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials on microscopy.

AnEndocrinologistis a physician specializing in diagnosing and treating diseases and malfunctions of the endocrine glands, which secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream. These glands include the thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, pituitary, and others. Endocrinologists manage conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and hormonal imbalances.

Gynecologist: Specializes in women's reproductive health.

Gastroenterologist: Specializes in the digestive system.

Urologist: Specializes in the urinary system and male reproductive organs.

A patient in the prone position is lying face down. This position is commonly used in medical examinations and surgical procedures to access the back or posterior parts of the body. It helps in various diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, providing better access to the dorsal surface of the body.

References:

Mosby's Medical Dictionary

Clinical Examination Techniques by Talley and O'Connor

A tray for a pelvic examination normally includes a vaginal speculum and lubricant. The speculum is a medical tool used to open the vaginal walls for visual inspection and access to the cervix during the examination. Lubricant is applied to the speculum to ease insertion and increase patient comfort. Other instruments that may be included depending on the specific examination or procedure are gloves, tenaculum, and hemostat forceps. Proper preparation of the examination tray ensures that the healthcare provider has all necessary tools readily available, facilitating a smooth and efficient examination process.

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.

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).

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.

Thegaugeof a needle refers to its diameter, with a lower gauge number indicating a larger diameter. Therefore, a19 gauge needlehas the widest lumen among the options given. It is commonly used for rapid blood transfusions or for drawing viscous fluids.

21 gauge: Smaller lumen than 19 gauge.

22 gauge: Smaller lumen than 21 gauge.

26 gauge: Smallest lumen of the options listed.

A patient in thesupine positionis lying flat on their back with their palms and face up. This position is commonly used during surgeries and medical examinations as it provides easy access to the patient's anterior body, including the chest and abdomen.

Lying face down: This is known as the prone position.

Lying on the left side with the right leg flexed: This is often referred to as the left lateral or left Sims' position.

Lying on the right side with the left leg flexed: This is the right lateral or right Sims' position.

When a patient must cancel an appointment, it is appropriate to express regret and immediately schedule another appointment. This approach maintains a professional and empathetic relationshipwith the patient, ensuring continuity of care. Reprimanding the patient or refusing to re-book another appointment can damage the patient-provider relationship and is not considered professional behavior. Instead, expressing regret acknowledges the inconvenience while rescheduling ensures the patient’s medical needs are still met.

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.

The pituitary gland is often referred to as the "master" gland of the human body. It is located at the base of the brain and is a critical part of the endocrine system. The pituitary gland secretes hormones that regulate a wide range of bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and reproductive processes. It controls the function of other endocrine glands such as the thyroid, adrenal glands, and reproductive glands. Because of its broad regulatory functions, the pituitary gland plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis in the body.

When giving an injection into the buttocks, the sciatic nerve is the nerve to be most concerned with. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, running from the lower back down through the buttocks and into the legs. To avoid injuring this nerve, intramuscular injections in the buttocks are typically given in the upper outer quadrant of the gluteal muscle. This area is safely away from the path of the sciatic nerve, minimizing the risk of nerve damage.

Theclavicle, commonly known as the collar bone, is a slender bone that runs horizontally between the top of the breastbone (sternum) and the shoulder blade (scapula) on each side of the body. It serves as a strut to keep the scapula in place, allowing the arm to hang freely.

Scapula: Also known as the shoulder blade, located at the back.

Acromion: The bony process on the scapula.

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

Hyperglycemia refers to elevated levels of glucose in the blood, commonly associated with diabetes mellitus. It occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Symptoms of hyperglycemia include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. Chronic hyperglycemia can lead to serious complications such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney failure, and retinopathy. Management of blood glucose levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes to prevent these complications.

The tiny microscopic projections in the wall of the small intestine that absorb nutrients into the bloodstream are calledvillus; villi. These finger-like projections increase the surface area of the intestine, allowing for more efficient nutrient absorption.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, anatomy and physiology textbooks.

For the first two months, the unborn child is referred to as anembryo. During this period, major organs and structures begin to form. After the initial two months, the developing baby is referred to as a fetus until birth.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, embryology and prenatal development references.

Basophils are a type of white blood cell that can be identified under a microscope by their large blue to purple staining granules. These granules contain histamine and heparin, which play a role in inflammatory responses and allergic reactions. Basophils are involved in immune system responses and can be recognized during a differential white blood cell count due to their distinctive staining properties and granule appearance.

References:

Clinical Hematology and Fundamentals of Hemostasis

Wintrobe's Clinical Hematology

The small sac attached to the underside of the liver that stores bile is called thegallbladder. The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver, releasing it into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, anatomy and physiology textbooks.

A diagnostic technique that detects regions of heat and cold in the body is called thermography. Thermography involves the use of infrared cameras to capture temperature variations on the surface of the body. This technique is useful for identifying areas of inflammation, abnormal blood flow, and other conditions that cause changes in skin temperature.

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.

A mysterious condition that kills apparently healthy infants between the ages of 4 weeks and 7 months is known as sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is the sudden, unexplained death of an otherwise healthy baby, often during sleep. The exact cause of SIDS is unknown, but it is believed to be associated with factors such as sleep environment, respiratory issues, and developmental vulnerabilities.

References:

American Academy of Pediatrics - SIDS Guidelines

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: From Pathophysiology to Prevention by J. Bruce Beckwith

Medicarepays80 percentof the approved amount for covered services after the beneficiary meets the deductible. The remaining 20 percent is typically paid by the patient or a secondary insurance if the patient has one. This cost-sharing helps manage the expenses between Medicare and the patient.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, Medicare guidelines.

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 termselfrefers toauto. This prefix is used in medical terminology to denote self or same, as seen in words like autoimmune (where the immune system attacks the body's own cells) and autopsy (self-examination of a body after death).

References:

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

Stedman's Medical Dictionary (28th ed.). (2006). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

The application of water in the treatment of disease is referred to as hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy involves the use of water in various forms (liquid, steam, ice) to alleviate pain, promote healing, and improve physical function. It can include treatments such as whirlpools, hot and cold compresses, and therapeutic baths.

References:

Hydrotherapy: Principles and Practice by Margaret Reid Campion

Physical Agents in Rehabilitation: From Research to Practice by Michelle H. Cameron

The abbreviation forimmediatelyisSTAT. This term is used in medical contexts to indicate that an action is to be taken immediately, derived from the Latin word "statim."

References:

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

Stedman's Medical Abbreviations, Acronyms & Symbols (5th ed.). (2013). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

The branch of medicine which uses radionuclides in the diagnosis and treatment of disease isnuclear medicine. Radionuclides are radioactive isotopes that are used in imaging techniques such as PET scans and SPECT scans, as well as in therapeutic procedures for conditions like cancer.Reference:Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant study materials, medical imaging and nuclear medicine references.

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.

The United States health care system relies heavily onPrivate Health Insurance. The majority of Americans obtain health insurance through private insurers, often provided as part of employment benefits. This system contrasts with other countries that may rely more on public health insurance or national health services. Private health insurance covers a wide range of medical services and is a critical component of the U.S. healthcare infrastructure.

The suffix-algiameanspain. It is used in medical terminology to describe pain in a specific part of the body, such as in "neuralgia" (nerve pain) or "myalgia" (muscle pain).

-ectomy: Refers to the surgical removal of a part of the body, as in "appendectomy."

algia: Correct suffix meaning pain.

olgíaandilgia: Incorrect and not used in medical terminology.

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

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.

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.

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).

TRICARE, formerly known asCHAMPUS (Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services), is a healthcare program for military members, retirees, and their dependents. It is sponsored by theU.S. Militaryand provides comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, dental, and pharmacy services.