NRCMA Patient Intake 3

Question 1

Which pulse site is most commonly used during routine patient intake?

Accepted Answer

Radial artery at the wrist

Answer

The radial pulse at the wrist is the standard site for routine pulse assessment during patient intake due to accessibility and patient comfort.

Question 2

A patient is unable to speak English and no interpreter is present. The BEST action for the medical assistant is to:

Accepted Answer

Use a qualified medical interpreter service or telephone interpretation line

Answer

Qualified medical interpreters are required under federal law (Title VI) to ensure accurate communication and patient safety.

Question 3

When reviewing a patient's social history during intake, which of the following should the medical assistant document?

Accepted Answer

Tobacco use, alcohol use, recreational drug use, and occupation

Answer

Social history includes substance use, occupation, and lifestyle factors that directly affect diagnosis and treatment planning.

Question 4

A patient's oxygen saturation (SpO2) reads 91% on pulse oximetry. The medical assistant should:

Accepted Answer

Notify the provider immediately as this is below the normal range

Answer

Normal SpO2 is 95–100%; a reading of 91% is below normal and requires immediate provider notification.

Question 5

During patient intake, the medical assistant asks about the patient's surgical history. The patient mentions an appendectomy 'years ago.' The medical assistant should:

Accepted Answer

Document the procedure and ask for any additional details the patient can recall, such as approximate year

Answer

Past surgical history should be documented with as much detail as available, including approximate dates, as it informs current clinical care.

(NRCMA) Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant Practice Test

(NRCMA) Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant Practice Test

NRCMA Patient Intake 3