NBCMI Medical Specialties in Use

Question 1

A patient is referred to a nephrologist. Which organ system does this specialist primarily treat?

Accepted Answer

The kidneys

Answer

Nephrology deals with kidney function and disease, such as chronic kidney disease, dialysis and electrolyte disorders. The root 'nephr-' means kidney.

Question 2

During an oncology appointment, the physician says the cancer has 'metastasized.' What does this mean?

Accepted Answer

The cancer has spread from its original site to other parts of the body

Answer

Metastasis is when cancer spreads from the primary tumor to distant tissues or organs. The interpreter must render this accurately, without softening or adding to it.

Question 3

In an obstetrics visit, the provider refers to the patient as 'G3P2.' What does this notation describe?

Accepted Answer

Three pregnancies and two births

Answer

In obstetrics, G (gravida) is the number of pregnancies and P (para) is the number of births past viability. G3P2 means three pregnancies and two births.

Question 4

A cardiologist orders an echocardiogram. What is the interpreter rendering?

Accepted Answer

An ultrasound image of the heart's structure and function

Answer

An echocardiogram uses ultrasound ('echo') to image the heart's chambers, valves and pumping function. An electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) records electrical activity, and interpreters must not mix the two up.

Question 5

In a pediatric visit, the provider mentions the child's 'developmental milestones.' What is being assessed?

Accepted Answer

Age-expected skills such as walking, talking and social behavior

Answer

Developmental milestones are skills most children reach by certain ages, like sitting up, first words and walking. Pediatricians track them to spot delays.

NBCMI - National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters Practice Test

NBCMI - National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters Practice Test

NBCMI Medical Specialties in Use