CMA Vital Signs and Patient Assessment

Question 1

What is the normal resting heart rate range for a healthy adult?

Accepted Answer

60–100 beats per minute

Answer

A normal adult resting heart rate is 60–100 beats per minute; values outside this range may indicate bradycardia or tachycardia.

Question 2

Which site is most commonly used to assess the pulse in a routine adult patient assessment?

Accepted Answer

Radial artery

Answer

The radial artery at the wrist is the most common site for routine pulse assessment in adults due to its accessibility.

Question 3

A blood pressure reading of 142/92 mmHg would be classified as which stage according to current AHA guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Stage 2 Hypertension

Answer

Stage 2 Hypertension is defined as a systolic ≥140 mmHg or diastolic ≥90 mmHg by AHA guidelines.

Question 4

What is the normal oral body temperature for an adult in Fahrenheit?

Accepted Answer

98.6°F

Answer

The standard normal oral temperature for adults is 98.6°F (37°C), though slight individual variation is normal.

Question 5

When measuring a patient's respiratory rate, the medical assistant should count for how long without informing the patient?

Accepted Answer

60 seconds

Answer

A full 60-second count provides the most accurate respiratory rate and is the recommended method.

Certified Medical Assistant Exam Practice Test