Clinical Procedures and Patient Care Flashcards

When preparing a patient for a routine physical examination, which position is most appropriate for examining the abdomen?

Answer: Supine

The supine position (lying flat on the back) allows optimal access and visualization for abdominal examination.

What is the correct technique for measuring a patient's blood pressure using a manual sphygmomanometer?

Answer: Inflate cuff 20-30 mmHg above expected systolic, deflate at 2-3 mmHg per second

The standard technique is to inflate 20-30 mmHg above the expected systolic pressure and deflate at 2-3 mmHg per second to accurately detect Korotkoff sounds.

Which of the following is considered normal oxygen saturation (SpO2) in a healthy adult?

Answer: 95-100%

Normal SpO2 in a healthy adult is 95-100%; readings below 90% indicate hypoxemia requiring intervention.

When assisting with a sterile procedure, a medical assistant accidentally touches a non-sterile surface with a sterile glove. What is the correct action?

Answer: Change to new sterile gloves immediately

Any breach of sterility requires immediate replacement of sterile gloves to prevent introducing pathogens into the sterile field.

What is the proper order for removing personal protective equipment (PPE) after patient care?

Answer: Gloves, mask, goggles, gown

The CDC recommends removing gloves first, then goggles/face shield, gown, and finally mask to minimize self-contamination.

A patient's temperature is 101.8°F (38.8°C). How should the medical assistant document this finding?

Answer: Low-grade fever, document and notify provider

A temperature of 101.8°F is a low-grade fever that should be documented accurately and reported to the provider for clinical evaluation.