Medical Examination Procedures Flashcards
7 cards from real MEPS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Medical Examination Procedures flashcards as text
During the MEPS audiometric test, what condition would result in a disqualifying hearing loss finding?
Answer: Average hearing threshold exceeding 40 dB in the better ear across speech frequencies
MEPS uses audiometric standards where an average threshold above 40 dB across speech frequencies (500, 1000, 2000 Hz) in the better ear is generally disqualifying.
Which specialist conducts the actual physical examination at MEPS?
Answer: A MEPS medical officer (physician or PA)
MEPS medical officers, who are physicians or physician assistants, conduct the physical examination and make medical determinations.
A recruit has a history of asthma with no symptoms or treatment after age 13. How is this typically handled at MEPS?
Answer: May be qualified if documented symptom-free and treatment-free since age 13
Per DoDI 6130.03, asthma or reactive airway disease after age 13 is disqualifying, but those with no symptoms or treatment after that age may be found qualified.
What does the MEPS urinalysis screen primarily test for?
Answer: Illegal drugs including marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP
The MEPS urinalysis is primarily a drug screening panel that tests for a standard panel of controlled substances.
During the MEPS orthopedic examination, what specific movement is assessed to check for scoliosis?
Answer: The Adams forward bend test where the recruit bends forward at the waist
The Adams forward bend test causes spinal curvature to become visible as a rib hump if scoliosis is present.
What is the purpose of the HIV antibody test administered at MEPS?
Answer: To establish a baseline record; HIV-positive status alone is not immediately disqualifying under current policy
Current DoD policy allows HIV-positive service members in some roles, and the MEPS test establishes a baseline; the outcome is service-branch and waiver dependent.
A MEPS applicant is found to have a blood pressure reading of 150/92 mmHg on the first measurement. What is the standard MEPS protocol?
Answer: A second reading is taken after a rest period; if still elevated, referral or temporary disqualification may follow
MEPS protocol typically allows for a repeat measurement after the applicant rests, recognizing that anxiety or exertion can temporarily elevate blood pressure.