CMA Vital Signs and Patient Assessment 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When measuring a patient's height, the medical assistant should ask the patient to:
- Keep shoes on for accuracy
- Stand with heels, buttocks, and shoulders touching the wall or backboard (Correct answer)
- Tilt the chin slightly downward
- Stand on tiptoes to get a maximum measurement
Correct answer: Stand with heels, buttocks, and shoulders touching the wall or backboard
Proper height measurement requires the patient to stand with heels, buttocks, and shoulders against the measuring surface with the head in the Frankfort plane.
Question 2: Which of the following is the most accurate site for temperature measurement in an infant?
- Oral
- Axillary
- Rectal (Correct answer)
- Tympanic
Correct answer: Rectal
Rectal temperature is the most accurate method for infants because it closely reflects core body temperature.
Question 3: The difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings is called the:
- Mean arterial pressure
- Pulse pressure (Correct answer)
- Cardiac output
- Stroke volume
Correct answer: Pulse pressure
Pulse pressure is calculated by subtracting the diastolic pressure from the systolic pressure (e.g., 120 − 80 = 40 mmHg).
Question 4: A patient's BMI is calculated using which two measurements?
- Height and age
- Weight and waist circumference
- Height and weight (Correct answer)
- Age and weight
Correct answer: Height and weight
BMI (Body Mass Index) is derived from weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared (kg/m²).
Question 5: When auscultating blood pressure, the first Korotkoff sound heard represents the:
- Diastolic pressure
- Mean arterial pressure
- Systolic pressure (Correct answer)
- Pulse pressure
Correct answer: Systolic pressure
The first Korotkoff sound heard as the cuff deflates marks the systolic blood pressure reading.
Question 6: A respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute in an adult is classified as:
- Eupnea
- Bradypnea
- Tachypnea (Correct answer)
- Apnea
Correct answer: Tachypnea
Tachypnea is defined as an abnormally rapid respiratory rate greater than 20 breaths per minute in adults.
Question 7: Which pulse site is used when assessing circulation to the lower leg?
- Radial
- Brachial
- Popliteal (Correct answer)
- Temporal
Correct answer: Popliteal
The popliteal pulse, located behind the knee, is used to assess circulation to the lower extremity.
CMA Vital Signs and Patient Assessment 2
When measuring a patient's height, the medical assistant should ask the patient to: