Clinical Skills Flashcards
7 cards from real AMCA 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 Skills flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of applying a tourniquet during venipuncture?
Answer: To distend the vein for easier access
A tourniquet is placed 3–4 inches above the site to increase venous pressure and make veins more visible and palpable.
A patient reports pain rated 8 out of 10. Which pain scale uses faces to indicate pain level, most suitable for children?
Answer: Wong-Baker FACES Scale
The Wong-Baker FACES Scale uses illustrated faces ranging from happy to crying to help children communicate pain intensity without needing numbers.
Which position is appropriate for a patient undergoing a pelvic examination?
Answer: Lithotomy position
The lithotomy position places the patient supine with legs in stirrups, providing access for pelvic and gynecological examinations.
What does the medical abbreviation 'NPO' instruct regarding a patient?
Answer: Nothing by mouth
NPO (nil per os) means the patient must have nothing by mouth, often required before surgical procedures or certain diagnostic tests.
When measuring blood pressure manually, what sound signals the systolic pressure reading?
Answer: First appearance of Korotkoff sounds
Systolic pressure is recorded at the first appearance (Phase I) of Korotkoff sounds as the cuff is slowly deflated.
A patient arrives with a suspected fracture of the right arm. The medical assistant should NOT perform which action?
Answer: Attempt to realign or straighten the arm
Attempting to realign a fracture can cause additional injury; the limb should be immobilized in the position found until the provider evaluates.
Which antiseptic is commonly used to cleanse the skin before venipuncture?
Answer: 70% isopropyl alcohol
70% isopropyl alcohol is the standard antiseptic for skin preparation before venipuncture because it is effective and quick-drying.