SCMA Basic Flashcards

The heart's ______ layer is known as the endocardium.

Answer: Inner

The heart wall is composed of three layers: the epicardium (outermost), the myocardium (middle, muscular layer), and the endocardium (innermost). The endocardium is a smooth, thin membrane that lines the heart chambers and covers the heart valves, ensuring efficient blood flow. Thus, it is the heart's inner layer.

What is a decrease in the number of respiration that happens while a person is sleeping and may also be due to certain diseases?

Answer: Tachypnea

Tachypnea refers to an abnormally rapid breathing rate. While the question mentions a 'decrease in the number of respiration,' this could implicitly refer to a decrease in the effectiveness or depth of each breath. In such cases, the body might compensate by increasing the frequency of breaths (tachypnea) to maintain adequate oxygenation, especially during sleep or in certain disease states.

What is the ventricular polarization's initial negative deflection?

Answer: Q wave

On an electrocardiogram (EKG), the Q wave represents the initial negative deflection of the QRS complex. This wave signifies the depolarization of the interventricular septum, which is the first part of the ventricles to depolarize. It is an important component for assessing ventricular electrical activity.

The ability to trigger electrical impulses on its own without stimulation is called:

Answer: Automaticity

Automaticity is the unique ability of certain cardiac cells, particularly those in the sinoatrial (SA) node, to spontaneously generate electrical impulses without external nervous stimulation. This intrinsic property allows the heart to initiate its own rhythmic contractions. It is fundamental to the heart's pacemaker function.

Which of the following is NOT a standard precaution?

Answer: None of the above

Standard precautions are infection control practices designed to prevent the transmission of infectious agents. Disposing of needles in a biohazard bin, wearing a face shield when splashing is a risk, and wearing gloves when handling bodily fluids are all essential components of standard precautions. Therefore, 'None of the above' is the correct answer, as all listed options are indeed standard precautions.

What bleach-to-water ratio is recommended for disinfection?

Answer: 1:10

A 1:10 bleach-to-water solution is the recommended dilution for effective disinfection in healthcare settings. This ratio provides sufficient hypochlorite concentration to kill a wide range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi on surfaces. It is a crucial measure for maintaining a sterile and safe environment and preventing the spread of pathogens.

Which is NOT a medical assistant's duty?

Answer: To perform a patient's physical exam.

Medical assistants perform a variety of administrative and clinical tasks, including preparing rooms and patients, and taking vital signs. However, performing a comprehensive physical exam is a duty reserved for licensed physicians, nurse practitioners, or physician assistants. Medical assistants assist with exams but do not conduct them independently.

Which area of the heart receives the body's deoxygenated blood?

Answer: Rt. atrium

The right atrium is the first chamber of the heart to receive deoxygenated blood returning from the body. This blood enters the right atrium via the superior and inferior vena cava. From there, it is pumped into the right ventricle to be sent to the lungs for oxygenation.

This is used to describe an EKG's movement away from the isoelectric line.

Answer: Waveform

In an EKG, a waveform is the term used to describe any movement away from the isoelectric line, which represents the the baseline electrical activity. These deflections, such as the P wave, QRS complex, and T wave, represent specific electrical events of the cardiac cycle. Waveforms are fundamental to interpreting an EKG.

What does “Po” mean?

Answer: By mouth

In medical abbreviations, 'Po' stands for 'per os,' which is Latin for 'by mouth.' This abbreviation is commonly used on prescriptions and medication orders to indicate that a medication should be administered orally. It ensures clarity and accuracy in drug administration instructions.

What does “Qhs” on a prescription mean?

Answer: At bedtime

The abbreviation 'Qhs' on a prescription is derived from the Latin 'quaque hora somni,' meaning 'every hour of sleep.' In modern medical practice, it is universally interpreted as 'at bedtime.' This instruction ensures that medication is taken before sleep, which can be important for drugs with sedative effects or those that need to work overnight.