SCMA SCMA Basic 2

Question 1

When performing a capillary blood draw from a finger, which area should be avoided?

Accepted Answer

Center of the fingertip

Answer

The center of the fingertip should be avoided because it contains more nerve endings and less tissue depth, increasing pain and risk of bone injury.

Question 2

Which of the following is the correct order for removing personal protective equipment (PPE) after patient care?

Accepted Answer

Gloves, gown, mask, eye protection

Answer

The CDC recommends removing gloves first, then gown, then mask or respirator, then eye protection to minimize self-contamination.

Question 3

A patient's chart is subpoenaed for court proceedings. What is the medical assistant's responsibility?

Accepted Answer

Notify the physician and follow the practice's legal protocol

Answer

A subpoena is a legal order, so the medical assistant must notify the physician and follow the practice's established legal protocol for responding.

Question 4

Which muscle is the preferred site for intramuscular injection in infants under 12 months?

Accepted Answer

Vastus lateralis

Answer

The vastus lateralis (anterolateral thigh) is preferred for IM injections in infants because it has adequate muscle mass and no major nerves nearby.

Question 5

What does the medical abbreviation 'NPO' instruct the patient to do?

Accepted Answer

Nothing by mouth

Answer

NPO stands for 'nil per os,' a Latin phrase meaning nothing by mouth, typically ordered before surgery or certain diagnostic tests.

Specialty Certified Medical Assistant Practice Test