RMA First Aid and Emergency Procedures

Question 1

A patient collapses in the waiting room and is unresponsive with no normal breathing. What is the FIRST action the medical assistant should take?

Accepted Answer

Call for help and activate the emergency response system (call 911)

Answer

The first priority when an unresponsive patient is found is to call for help and activate the emergency response system (dial 911 or call a code), then begin CPR and retrieve the AED.

Question 2

Which of the following is a sign of anaphylaxis that requires immediate administration of epinephrine?

Accepted Answer

Generalized urticaria (hives), throat tightness, and difficulty breathing after eating

Answer

Generalized hives combined with throat tightness and difficulty breathing after an exposure are classic signs of anaphylaxis — a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction requiring immediate intramuscular epinephrine.

Question 3

What is the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio for adult CPR with a single rescuer?

Accepted Answer

30:2

Answer

Current AHA guidelines recommend a 30:2 compression-to-ventilation ratio for single-rescuer adult CPR — 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.

Question 4

A patient in the medical office develops syncope (fainting). After ensuring they have not injured themselves, what is the most appropriate initial action?

Accepted Answer

Position the patient supine with legs elevated (Trendelenburg-like position) to improve cerebral blood flow

Answer

For simple vasovagal syncope, positioning the patient supine (lying flat) with legs elevated increases venous return to the heart and improves blood flow to the brain, typically restoring consciousness quickly.

Question 5

When treating a patient with an arterial bleed from a laceration on the forearm, which method of hemorrhage control should be used first?

Accepted Answer

Apply direct pressure with a clean or sterile cloth or bandage

Answer

Direct pressure applied firmly to the wound is the first and most effective method for controlling active external bleeding, including arterial bleeds, before considering other measures.

RMA Practice Test

RMA Practice Test

RMA First Aid and Emergency Procedures