NCMA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield NCMA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. The term 'bilateral' in a clinical note referring to 'bilateral lower extremity edema' means: → Swelling of both legs
2. What is the minimum volume of urine typically required for a routine urinalysis? → 10–12 mL
3. Which of the following is a key requirement of the HIPAA Security Rule for protecting electronic PHI (ePHI)? → Implementing technical safeguards like access controls and encryption.
4. A medical assistant wants to specialize to improve their salary. Which of the following specializations could lead to a higher income? → All of the above
5. Which bony structure encloses and protects the brain? → Cranium
6. AC interference on an EKG tracing appears as: → A series of small, uniform spikes creating a thick, fuzzy line
7. What is the correct electrode color code for the LEFT LEG in a standard US ECG system? → Green
8. What does the abbreviation 'PRN' mean on a medication order? → Take as needed
9. Which of the following workplace settings typically offers the highest salary for medical assistants? → Hospitals
10. A patient's blood pressure reading is 145/92 mmHg. According to the 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines, this is classified as: → Stage 2 hypertension
11. When setting up a sterile field for a minor surgical procedure, how far from the edge of the sterile drape must all sterile items be placed? → At least 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the edge, as the border is considered contaminated
12. What are the three HIPAA safeguard categories under the Security Rule, which applies specifically to electronic PHI (ePHI)? → Administrative, physical, and technical safeguards
13. A subcutaneous injection is administered at what angle to the skin? → 45 degrees
14. Which of the following is a contraindication for a cardiac stress test? → Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) within the past 2 days
15. What does the P wave represent on an EKG tracing? → Atrial depolarization
16. A patient's temperature is measured at 101.5°F orally. Using the Celsius conversion, what is this equivalent to? → 38.6°C
17. Which blood type is considered the universal donor for red blood cell transfusions? → Type O negative
18. How many electrodes are placed on the patient for a standard 12-lead EKG? → 10 electrodes (4 limb + 6 precordial)
19. What does a normal PR interval duration indicate on an ECG? → Normal conduction through the AV node (0.12–0.20 seconds)
20. Which of the following additional skills MOST directly increases a medical assistant's earning potential in an ambulatory care setting? → Proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) systems and medical coding
21. Which schedule of controlled substances is defined as having a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use in the United States? → Schedule I
22. Where is the V1 precordial electrode placed for a standard 12-lead EKG? → Fourth intercostal space, right sternal border
23. Which lead records electrical activity from a viewpoint directly at the bottom (inferior) surface of the heart? → aVF
24. What is the recommended angle of needle insertion for a routine venipuncture in the antecubital fossa? → 15 to 30 degrees
25. The process that destroys all microbial life, including spores, is called: → Sterilization
26. Which measurement is considered the most accurate method for determining body temperature? → Rectal
27. How does obtaining additional certifications (e.g., phlebotomy, EKG technician) affect a medical assistant’s salary? → Increases salary by broadening skills and qualifications.
28. When performing duties as a medical assistant, which of the following is essential for maintaining professional boundaries with patients? → Maintaining a friendly but professional demeanor.
29. Which of the following sites should a medical assistant avoid for venipuncture? → An arm on the same side as a mastectomy
30. When is the most appropriate time to label a patient's specimen container? → Immediately after collection, in front of the patient.