Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the typical heart rate range for certain conditions described?
What is the typical heart rate range for certain conditions described?
Which of the following is NOT a cause of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs)?
Which of the following is NOT a cause of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs)?
What is a distinguishing feature of ventricular tachycardia on an ECG?
What is a distinguishing feature of ventricular tachycardia on an ECG?
How is ventricular fibrillation characterized on an ECG?
How is ventricular fibrillation characterized on an ECG?
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Which condition is often associated with a myocardial infarction and is life-threatening?
Which condition is often associated with a myocardial infarction and is life-threatening?
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What is the first step to assist a drowning victim before they are removed from the water?
What is the first step to assist a drowning victim before they are removed from the water?
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Which type of poisoning requires immediate rescue breathing?
Which type of poisoning requires immediate rescue breathing?
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What action should be taken when treating a person having an asthma attack?
What action should be taken when treating a person having an asthma attack?
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What is a potential consequence of electric shock on a victim's breathing?
What is a potential consequence of electric shock on a victim's breathing?
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What should NOT be done when dealing with a victim of electric shock?
What should NOT be done when dealing with a victim of electric shock?
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During an abdominal thrust on an adult with an obstructed airway, which position should the victim be in?
During an abdominal thrust on an adult with an obstructed airway, which position should the victim be in?
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What is a common physiological effect of certain medications?
What is a common physiological effect of certain medications?
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What is necessary for follow-up after a person survives drowning?
What is necessary for follow-up after a person survives drowning?
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What is the primary function of red blood cells?
What is the primary function of red blood cells?
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Which type of blood cells primarily protects the body against infections?
Which type of blood cells primarily protects the body against infections?
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What is measured in a total red blood cell count?
What is measured in a total red blood cell count?
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What measurement is specifically used to assess the proportion of red blood cells in the blood?
What measurement is specifically used to assess the proportion of red blood cells in the blood?
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What is one of the key roles of platelets in the blood?
What is one of the key roles of platelets in the blood?
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What is the normal total red blood cell count range for an adult male?
What is the normal total red blood cell count range for an adult male?
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Which cells are responsible for the production of antibodies?
Which cells are responsible for the production of antibodies?
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What is the function of granulocytes in the immune system?
What is the function of granulocytes in the immune system?
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Which count provides insight into the body's immediate response to infection?
Which count provides insight into the body's immediate response to infection?
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What is the primary purpose of performing a hematocrit test?
What is the primary purpose of performing a hematocrit test?
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What is the primary focus when preparing a patient for an ECG?
What is the primary focus when preparing a patient for an ECG?
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Which of the following denotes the correct positioning of precordial leads?
Which of the following denotes the correct positioning of precordial leads?
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What does the process of standardization in ECG involve?
What does the process of standardization in ECG involve?
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What is an important aspect of the ECG performance procedure regarding patient preparation?
What is an important aspect of the ECG performance procedure regarding patient preparation?
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Which factor is least important in performing ECG accurately?
Which factor is least important in performing ECG accurately?
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What should be done to ensure proper electrode attachment during an ECG?
What should be done to ensure proper electrode attachment during an ECG?
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In an ECG, what is the significance of properly placing lead wires on the leg?
In an ECG, what is the significance of properly placing lead wires on the leg?
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What is the most crucial outcome of correct ECG lead configuration?
What is the most crucial outcome of correct ECG lead configuration?
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What is the appropriate action to take if the infant does not respond after five backslaps?
What is the appropriate action to take if the infant does not respond after five backslaps?
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What should you do if the infant is conscious and you can see the object lodged in their throat?
What should you do if the infant is conscious and you can see the object lodged in their throat?
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What is the correct order of actions to take if an infant is choking and becomes unconscious?
What is the correct order of actions to take if an infant is choking and becomes unconscious?
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How many chest thrusts should be delivered per cycle when helping a choking infant?
How many chest thrusts should be delivered per cycle when helping a choking infant?
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What should not be done when providing care to a choking infant who is still breathing?
What should not be done when providing care to a choking infant who is still breathing?
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What is the rate at which you should deliver chest thrusts during the procedure?
What is the rate at which you should deliver chest thrusts during the procedure?
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What indicates that the infant may not receive further intervention during choking?
What indicates that the infant may not receive further intervention during choking?
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When should you call for help (EMS) while assisting a choking infant?
When should you call for help (EMS) while assisting a choking infant?
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What is the primary focus of the section on treating burns?
What is the primary focus of the section on treating burns?
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Which method is recommended for cleaning wounds?
Which method is recommended for cleaning wounds?
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What is the key component in the process of applying a tube gauze bandage?
What is the key component in the process of applying a tube gauze bandage?
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Which aspect of wound care is primarily addressed in the section labeled 'Cleaning Wounds'?
Which aspect of wound care is primarily addressed in the section labeled 'Cleaning Wounds'?
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What commonly overlooked factor can impede proper healing of a wound?
What commonly overlooked factor can impede proper healing of a wound?
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What is an essential step in bandaging wounds effectively?
What is an essential step in bandaging wounds effectively?
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Which of the following procedures is NOT associated with wound care?
Which of the following procedures is NOT associated with wound care?
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What is the significance of using sterile gauze in wound care?
What is the significance of using sterile gauze in wound care?
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Study Notes
Radiologic Studies
- Radiologic technology, also known as diagnostic imaging, is a significant role in diagnosis and monitoring diseases and injuries.
- As a medical assistant, the role might involve assisting a radiology technologist or directly taking X-rays and operating equipment (with appropriate licenses).
- Duties also include scheduling patients for radiology procedures at facilities.
- Routine screenings for mammograms and chest X-rays are common, while other tests are used for diagnosis.
Safety
- Any person working in a facility performing radiologic tests is at risk for excessive radiation exposure.
- Standard safety precautions must be followed to protect workers and patients.
- All staff working in the radiology department or taking radiographs must wear a personnel monitoring device.
- Each worker has a maximum permissible dose.
Radiologic Procedures
- Providers order many imaging tests for condition or injury diagnosis.
- Some procedures require special patient preparation or contrast media.
- The evolution of radiology has resulted in lower doses now used in many procedures.
- Patient education includes a description of the procedure, preparation and what to expect.
X-Rays and Radiation Therapy
- X-rays (roentgen rays) are high-energy electromagnetic radiation produced by electron collisions with a metal target in an X-ray tube.
- Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered X-rays in 1895.
- X-ray photographs are taken of requested body parts to create permanent images.
- Some electronic medical records systems upload results and reports directly to the provider's desktop and the patient's electronic chart.
- Results and reports from outside organizations may be imported using scanning and importing features.
Preparing Patients for X-Rays
- Patients may need preparation depending on the specific radiology study.
- This preparation often involves a prior preparation, including diet restrictions, and is extremely important to follow to ensure the images are clear and accurate, avoiding any delays.
Gallbladder Imaging
- The gallbladder stores bile to digest fats, for breakdown.
- When the gallbladder functions abnormally, patients experience abdominal discomfort and pain.
- Cholecystogram is a technique used to diagnose the cause of patient distress.
- Cholecystogram also referred to as a gallbladder series and a double-dose gallbladder series.
- Gallstones are often seen on cholecystogram images.
- Abdominal ultrasound is an alternative imaging technique used by some in place of cholecystogram.
Upper GI Series-Barium Swallow
- For an upper GI series study, the patient drinks contrast medium containing barium.
- The radiologist observes the substance's flow directly using a fluoroscope.
- Images are taken of the upper digestive tract.
- Patient education should address clear liquid evening meal, nothing to eat or drink after midnight and any medication restrictions as advised.
- Some types of examinations that may be included require a mixture, of barium and air in the stomach.
- The tests are made with care of the patient’s well-being in mind.
Lower GI Series-Barium Enema
- Patients are usually instructed in accordance with the guidelines of Table 46–1.
- Avoid all dairy products before the study for better visualization of the colon.
- Adequate preparation is very important for the study as improper preparation might result in needing to repeat the tests.
Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)
- The IVP allows the provider to define the structures within the urinary system.
- In preparation for the test the patient must follow laxative or enema preparation and fasting.
- IV injection of iodine, the contrast medium, is necessary.
Nuclear Medicine
- Nuclear medicine uses radionuclides for disease diagnosis and treatment.
- Procedures record organ and tissue function by the uptake of radioactive materials.
Sonographic Studies
- Sonography records the reflections of ultrasonic sound waves directed into tissues to get a visual of internal structures.
- The use of a transducer (handheld instrument) is common.
- The technique is considered safe as it doesn't use radiation.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) enables the visualization of internal body structures without using X-rays or surgery.
- The technique uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce images.
- Sometimes the procedure is done with the use of a sedative or an open MRI.
- In some situations, the image quality may not be as clear as with a traditional MRI.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan
- PET uses a radioactive substance (tracer) to identify disease or view organs.
- A computer processes data from the scanner to provide a three-dimensional image of the scanned body structures.
- The patient is instructed to lie still to prevent image blurring.
Mammography
- Mammography detects breast masses, and lesions, as small as 1 centimeter.
- Regular practice of self-examinations and examinations by providers are beneficial.
- Screening is recommended annually for women.
- The procedure involves compression of the breasts during the test to produce a clearer image of the mammary structures
- Patients need to avoid deodorant and perfumes on exam day.
CT Scans
- CT (computed tomography) uses rapid scanning of single-tissue planes to provide cross-sectional images of the body, with slices about 1cm thick.
- CT scans help with diagnosing diseases and disorders of the breast, brain, and internal organs.
Hematology Testing
- Hematology tests measure red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
- Hemoglobin carries oxygen in the blood and hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- A complete blood count (CBC) is a common test in healthcare.
- It measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
- The ratios and percentages of blood cells, such as lymphocytes, monocytes, or granulocytes, help assess certain conditions.
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)
- A modified form of hemoglobin that is elevated when the blood glucose levels are high.
- This test gives an assessment of the control the patient has maintained on the blood sugar over the past two to three months.
Cholesterol Testing
- Cholesterol is a steroid, and high cholesterol(hypercholesterolemia) may lead to hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis).
- A fasting specimen is required for this blood test.
- Testing equipment and procedures are available to measure cholesterol levels rapidly.
Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT)
- The GTT is used to diagnose diabetes mellitus or hypoglycemia.
- The test is done to assess a patient's ability to metabolize glucose over a certain timeframe.
- Blood sugar level checks are done periodically during this evaluation.
PKU Testing
- PKU (phenylketonuria) testing is done on a newborn infant using a blood sample from the heel.
- The test is used to detect defects in the metabolism of the amino acid phenylalanine in a newborn infant.
Testing Outside the POL
- A series of related tests can be consolidated into a panel or profile.
- These are often performed at outside facilities.
- The types of tests are tailored for each panel, and the way results and forms are handled frequently differs from one facility to another.
Other Cardiovascular Equipment
- Defibrillators (AEDs) are essential equipment used in medical offices and clinics.
- They are required for responding to emergency cardiac events.
- These and other devices enable quick action, to potentially save lives in event of emergencies.
Emergencies in the Medical Office
- Medical emergencies may arise within the medical office or the surrounding area.
- Procedures for managing these situations include obtaining appropriate detailed information, determining the severity of the incident, and summoning the help according to the office emergency protocol.
Emergency Supplies and Equipment
- Medical offices should have a readily accessible emergency kit or crash cart.
- The kit supplies common and crucial equipment for emergency situations, such as gloves, alcohol wipes, oxygen source, etc.
Recognizing and Responding to Emergencies
- Recognizing patients with certain symptoms of a medical emergency is essential for prompt care.
- The symptoms of these events may include:
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Respiratory arrest
- Cardiac Arrest
- Shock
- Significant burns
- Severe chest pain
- Head or neck injuries
- Loss of consciousness
- Certain intoxications.
Foreign Bodies
- Foreign bodies can lodge in various parts of the body (eyes, ears, nose, etc.).
- Removal methods vary according to location of the foreign body and the material.
Strained and Sprained Injuries
- Strains occur when a muscle or tendon is overextended.
- Sprains result in torn or stretched ligaments surrounding a joint, typically in the ankle
- The RICE and RICER principles should aid in the treatment while awaiting a healthcare provider.
Dislocations
- Partial or total displacement of a joint.
- The first aid recommended is immobilization, ideally with a splint, for later care. Waiting for a practitioner who is more qualified for a diagnosis is extremely important, and you cannot attempt any realignment of the bones yourself.
Fractures
- Fractures are bone breaks that are classified as either open or closed.
- First aid to control any bleeding, immobilize the fracture (with a splint), and transport the victim as quickly as possible, is essential.
- A provider is the only authorized person to attempt reduction of the fracture.
Cleaning Wounds
- Cleaning wounds involves using antiseptic solutions, warm water, and friction; apply an antimicrobial solution following the cleaning to ensure that there are no remaining germs left on the wound.
- Cleaning the affected area as well as any debris, is vital for avoiding infection.
Bandaging Wounds
- Applying a bandage involves appropriate types and sizes of dressings, with the aid of an applicator, for a more efficient and appropriate application.
- Applying multiple turns and securing with tape, for different shapes of appendages.
Applying Heat and Cold Treatments
- The application of heat and cold is commonly used in the care of injuries and conditions such as strains, sprains, burns, bruises.
- The application of heat increases blood circulation; the application of cold reduces blood flow and inflammation.
Animal Bites and Stings
- Cleaning an animal bite thoroughly, with antiseptic soap or solution, water, and rinsing.
- Applying a dressing and a pressure bandage, while taking the victim to the hospital, in cases involving injuries requiring more care.
- Removal of any remaining stinger is advised, as multiple punctures can occur with stings from wasps, bees etc.
Other Cardiovascular Equipment
- Medical offices or emergency centers commonly have defibrillators, a device that delivers a shock to the heart to reestablish regular rhythm.
Emergency Phone Numbers
- It is important to have readily accessible emergency phone numbers for various services, like the police, fire department, hospitals, poison control centers, etc.
- Emergency procedure should have a listing of crucial numbers for instant access during an emergency event.
Accidents and Injuries & Foreign Bodies
- Emergency situations like accidents and injuries are frequent.
- Knowing the correct first aid procedures might help in treatment.
- Objects lodged within the body (foreign body) require immediate treatment by an appropriate health care professional.
Testing for HIV
- HIV testing is performed by immunoassays that detect antibodies to the virus.
Testing for PKU
- PKU (phenylketonuria) tests are done by obtaining blood from an infant's heel.
- It's required by law in most regions for the early detection and subsequent treatment of PKU.
Exercise Stress Tests and Echocardiography
- Exercise ECG (electrocardiography) is a test used in evaluating cardiac response to activity.
- Echocardiography is a procedure involving sound waves to examine the heart structures and function.
Holter Monitor
- The placement of ECG electrodes should be assessed and checked.
- This ambulatory ECG (ECG) is a portable device that monitors heart function continuously.
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