Physical Examinations

Assisting with the exam:

- Positioning and draping the patient appropriately. - Handing equipment to the physician and retrieving the equipment after use. - Adjusting the overhead lighting, as needed. - Preparing and labeling cultures, as needed. - Documenting data from the exam, as directed by the physician. Some physicians will document the exams themselves, while other physicians will dictate notes and data for the medical assistant to record.

Role of an MA:

- prepare the room and pt - assisting with exam - completing the exam

By 12 months, Patrick is in the ____ percentile for his weight.

50th

Patrick is in the ___ percentile for his length.

50th

Generally speaking, about how many routine exams does an infant receive during the first year of life?

6 exams

By 12 months, Patrick is in the ____ percentile for his length.

90th

Which of the following is true about pediatric exams?

Because of rapid growth and development, most pediatrics receive more physical exams than adults.

Which of the following is NOT true about a complete physical exam (CPE)?

CPEs must be performed in a specific order.

Which of the following is true about documenting complete physical exams?

Documentation should include a synopsis of the physical.

Which of the following describes an appropriate way for a medical assistant to interact with a 4-year-old patient?

Explain the steps of the procedure using age-appropriate language.

Which pulse points should be checked in infants and small children?

Femoral or brachial

Which of the following is true about pediatric vaccinations?

Parents have the right to refuse vaccinations for their children.

During a CPE, in what position is the patient typically placed during the examination of the head, eyes, ears, nose, and throat?

Sitting position

Why is it important for the medical assistant to remain quiet during the examination of the heart and lungs?

So the physician can listen for abnormal sounds

At what age should blood pressure start being assessed in a pediatric patient?

Starting at 2 years

During a CPE, in what position is the patient typically placed during the examination of the breast, abdomen, and extremities?

Supine position

Which of the following must be done by the medical assistant when preparing a patient for a CPE?

Take vital signs and measurements

What is the general role of the medical assistant during a CPE?

To assist the physician in any way that is needed

What is the primary purpose of a pediatric growth chart?

To provide a visual assessment of the child's growth pattern

Prep the room:

Used, disposable drapes and gowns should be disposed. Non-disposable drapes and gowns should be placed in the laundry receptacle. The used exam table paper should be disposed. The table should then be disinfected and covered with fresh paper. All counter surfaces should be disinfected. A deodorizer should be sprayed if there is an unpleasant odor in the room. All supplies should be restocked as needed. All necessary equipment and supplies for the exam should be set out conveniently for the physician. A fresh gown should be laid out for the patient. Room temperature should be comfortable, and lighting should be appropriately bright.

What is the name of a routine check-up for a pediatric patient?

Well-child visit

Under what circumstances is it appropriate for a medical assistant to remain in the room with a patient when the patient is disrobing and putting on a gown?

When the patient specifically requests help with disrobing

Which of the following must be done by the medical assistant when preparing an exam room for a CPE? Cover the exam table with fresh paper Lay out a clean gown Make sure the temperature and lighting are appropriate Prepare all necessary equipment and supplies All of the above

all of the above