CCMA Practice Exam Questions Latest
Updated 2022 Rated A
d) shortness of breath
Other manifestations include edema and fatigue Correct Answer-A medical assistant is preparing a
patient who has congestive heart failur
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CCMA Practice Exam Questions Latest
Updated 2022 Rated A
d) shortness of breath
Other manifestations include edema and fatigue Correct Answer-A medical assistant is preparing a
patient who has congestive heart failure (CHF) for an exam by the provider. Which of the following
manifestation should the assistant expect?
a) palpitations
b) headaches
c) chest pain
d) shortness of breath
a) count the respirations while the patient thinks the pulse is being taken
To obtain the most accurate reading, this must be done when the patient is not expecting it Correct
Answer-When measuring a patient's respiratory rate, which of the following actions should the MA take
to ensure an accurate reading?
a) count the respirations while the patient thinks the pulse is being takenb) instruct the patient to breathe normally while counting breaths
c) count the respirations for 15 seconds and multiply by 2
d) instruct the patient to take deep breaths while obtaining his pulse
d) potassium 3 mEq/L
Normal potassium range is 3.5-5 mEq/L Correct Answer-Which of the following laboratory results should
the medical assistant recognize is abnormal?
a) sodium 138 mEq/L
b) RBC count 5.2/mm^3
c) platelets 350/mm^3
d) potassium 3 mEq/L
c) scissors
Scissors are considered cutting and dissecting instruments because they include a sharp blade or surface
for cutting, dissecting, or scraping. The other tools are not for dissecting or cutting. Correct Answer-A
provider has requested a dissecting instrument on a sterile tray that an MA is preparing. Which of the
following instruments should the assistant include on the tray?a) retractors
b) thumb forceps
c) scissors
d) probes
b) OSHA Form 301
This is also known as an incident report regarding work-related injury or illness. Correct Answer-An MA
is replacing a sharps container in an exam room and receives a small laceration on her arm from the
plastic lid. Which of the following types of documentation should the assistant complete as a result of
this incident?
a) Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN)
b) OSHA Form 301
c) CMS-1500 claim Form
d) Quality control log
d) fasting blood glucose 168 mg/dLFasting BGL should be between 70-130 mg/dL. Correct Answer-An MA is reviewing a patient's medical
history prior to the patient's appointment. Which of the following lab results indicates the need to
schedule an extension of the current visit?
a) hematocrit 42.2%
b) BUN 10 mg/dL
c) Potassium 4.3 mEq/L
d) fasting blood glucose 168 mg/dL
d) "Place the tablet between your gums and cheek." Correct Answer-An MA is reinforcing instructions
with a patient about how to take a buccal tablet. Which of the following instructions should the
assistant give the patient?
a) "Swallow the tablet whole."
b) "Place the tablet under your tongue."
c) "Dissolve the tablet in water."
d) "Place the tablet between your gums and cheek."
a) dyspnea Correct Answer-Which of the following terms should an MA use to tell a provider that a
patient is having discomfort and difficulty breathing?a) dyspnea
b) eupnea
c) pneumothorax
d) pneumonia
a) remittance advice
This document itemizes all paid, denied, and allowable charges for a patient. It notifies the provider of
any and all claim denials. Correct Answer-Which of the following methods is used to notify a provider of
the denial of a claim by an insurance carrier?
a) remittance advice
b) coordination of benefits
c) eligibility for insurance
d) CMS-1500 claim form
a) lithotomy Correct Answer-Which of the following positions is appropriate for a pelvic exam?
a) lithotomy
b) pronec) supine
d) high-Fowler's
c) holter monitor application Correct Answer-Which of the following cardiac procedures is within an
MA's scope of practice and does not require a licensed technician or provider to assist or perform it?
a) cardiac doppler
b) nuclear stress test
c) holter monitor application
d) angiogram
c) interrupted baseline Correct Answer-Which of the following EKG artifacts is caused by a disconnected
electrode and results in the tracing going into the margins of the paper?
a) wandering baseline
b) AC interference
c) interrupted baseline
d) somatic tremord) "I know you are concerned about your test results, We'll call you as soon as your results come in."
Correct Answer-An MA receives a phone call from a patient who seems anxious about the results of a
test. Which of the following responses should the assistant make?
a) "The doctor is busy right now and will call you back. You don't really want me to give you the results,
do you?"
b) "I'm afraid it's bad news. I would get a second opinion if I were you."
c) "Don't worry about it. Until we say you have something to worry about, try to relax."
d) "I know you are concerned about your test results, We'll call you as soon as your results come in."
a) gown
Scabies requires contact precautions. Therefore, the MA should wear gloves and a gown. Correct
Answer-An MA is assisting with the physical exam of a patient who has scabies. Besides gloves, which of
the following pieces of personal protective equipment should the assistant wear?
a) gown
b) mask
c) goggles
d) N95 respiratoryb) call for help and begin CPR Correct Answer-A patient loses consciousness. The EKG tracing reveals
ventricular fibrillation (V-fib). Which of the following actions should the MA take first?
a) notify the provider of the arrest
b) call for help and begin CPR
c) get the automated external defibrillator (AED)
d) administer oxygen
b) a subject line in all caps
A simplified letter style does not have a closing, is flush with the left margin, has no indentations, and
has a subject line in all capital letters Correct Answer-An MA is composing a business correspondence
using the simplified letter style. Which of the following features should the assistant use?
a) a complimentary closing
b) a subject line in all caps
c) indented paragraphs in the body of the letter
d) center-aligned dateline and salutation
b) on the left anterior axillary line, horizontal to V4 Correct Answer-Where should a medical assistant
place the electrode for V5?a) on the left mid-axillary line, horizontal to V4
b) on the left anterior axillary line, horizontal to V4
c) on the left mid-clavicular line, 5th intercostal space
d) on the right margin of the sternum, 4th intercostal space
a) 170 cm
Convert 5'7" to inches (67 inches). Convert inches to cm (1 in = 2.54 cm). Correct Answer-An MA is
caring for a patient who is 5'7" tall. Which of the following is the patient's height in cm?
a) 170 cm
b) 145 cm
c) 114 cm
d) 26 cm
a) wrap the wound from distal to proximal Correct Answer-Which of the following should an MA use
when bandaging a wound?
a) wrap the wound from distal to proximalb) bandage fingers and toes to prevent further injury
c) extend the wound dressing 3-5 inches beyond the bandage
d) moisten and apply ointment before bandaging
b) order additional lab tests to confirm the patient's condition Correct Answer-Which of the following is
outside of an MA's scope of practice?
a) perform clinical duties under the direct supervision of the provider
b) order additional lab tests to confirm the patient's condition
c) provide directions to a patient about preparation for a diagnostic test
d) reinforce instructions about medications and special diets
a) problem-focused exam
Problem-focused exams are limited to a single body area or system mentioned in the chief complaint.
Correct Answer-A patient is seen in an urgent care center for a laceration to the left foot. The provider
evaluates the injury, determines sutures are not needed, applies a dressing, and releases the patient.
Which of the following levels of examination should an MA use for the procedural coding for this visit?
a) problem-focused exam
b) expanded problem-focused examc) detailed exam
d) comprehensive exam
c) recent lab results Correct Answer-Prior to a patient's follow up appointment, which of the following
information should an MA report to the provider?
a) anthropometric measurements
b) the date of an upcoming mammogram
c) recent lab results
d) a change in the patient's insurance policy
d) "It is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex." Correct Answer-An MA is reviewing a provider's
instructions as the patient is preparing to leave the office. The provider recommends that the patient
purchases an over-the-counter (OTC) antitussive, but the patient does not know what an antitussive is.
Which of the following responses should the assistant say?
a) "It is a medication that reduces nasal membrane swelling."
b) "It is a medication that helps with coughing up mucus."
c) "It is a medication that relieves allergy symptoms."
d) "It is a medication that suppresses the cough reflex."b) "Select a different application location for each new patch." Correct Answer-An MA is reinforcing
teaching with a patient about the use and care of a transdermal patch. Which of the following
instructions should the assistant include in the teaching?
a) "Do not shower with the patch on."
b) "Select a different application location for each new patch."
c) "Apply lotion to your skin before applying the patch."
d) "Remove the old patch 1 hour before applying the new patch."
b) Sims' Correct Answer-In which of the following positions should an MA place a healthy patient in
preparation for a rectal exam?
a) lithotomy
b) Sims'
c) supine
d) Trendelenburg
d) confirm the correct identity of the patient Correct Answer-Which of the following steps for a
fingerstick should an MA complete first?
a) cleanse the site with an antiseptic wipeb) select the appropriate part of the 3rd or 4th finger
c) position the blade of the lancet across the lines of the fingertips
d) confirm the correct identity of the patient
c) cilia Correct Answer-Which of the following cell structures is instrumental in helping the body
mobilize and secrete mucus from the respiratory tract?
a) centrioles
b) ribosomes
c) cilia
d) mitochondria
a) ask the patient to state and spell their full name and provide their DOB Correct Answer-An MA in an
outpatient facility is preparing a patient for a venipuncture. Which of the following actions should the
MA take to confirm the patient's identity?
a) ask the patient to state and spell their full name and provide their DOB
b) ask the patient for the provider's name
c) as the patient to state their age and address
d) ask the patient to confirm their exam room numberd) "I will record any symptoms I experience in the event log." Correct Answer-An MA is reinforcing
teaching about a cardiac event monitor with a patient. Which of the following statements by the patient
indicates an understanding of the procedure?
a) "I will return the monitor after wearing it for 24 hours."
b) "I will discontinue my usual exercise routine."
c) " I will avoid removing the electrodes."
d) "I will record any symptoms I experience in the event log."
a) receive and prepare tissue specimens for processing Correct Answer-When assisting a provider with a
punch biopsy of a mole, which of the following tasks should an MA expect to perform?
a) receive and prepare tissue specimens for processing
b) swab fluids from the biopsy site
c) retract the edges of the biopsy site
d) place sutures at the incision site
c) inspect the integrity of the needle's sealThis helps ensure the needle is sterile. Correct Answer-Which of the following actions should an MA take
to verify the quality of the venipuncture supplies before beginning a blood draw?
a) determine that the tourniquet is the proper size
b) check the vacuum of the tube
c) inspect the integrity of the needle's seal
d) verify that the adapter is the correct color
c) using an OTC vaginal cream prior to the test Correct Answer-An MA is contacting a patient to schedule
a repeat Papanicolaou test due to abnormal results. The MA should identify which of the following
factors can interfere with the test results?
a) engaging in intercourse 48 hr prior to the test
b) douching 1 week prior to the test
c) using an OTC vaginal cream prior to the test
d) taking prescribed oral birth control pills
d) the service is provided after the expiration date Correct Answer-An MA has requested a
preauthorization for a patient's referral to a specialist. Which of the following is a reason for the claim
submitted by the specialist to be denied?a) the approved visits are listed in the authorization comments section
b) the patient previously submitted and received a self-referral
c) the specialty provider's NPI is not included in the authorization
d) the service is provided after the expiration date
d) left heel
If a child is under 12 months, the heel should be used for routine testing even if there is a welldeveloped vein available because it is sufficient and causes less trauma. Correct Answer-An MA has a
request to collect a routine CBC from a health 10-month-old infant. Which of the following is the most
appropriate collection site?
a) 3rd finger of the left hand
b) medial antecubital (AC) vein
c) cephalic vein
d) left heel
a) "I think that you feel that your treatment is not effective."
This statement validates that patient's feelings using the restatement technique without giving the
patient unfounded reassurance, being defensive, or giving medical advice. Correct Answer-A patienttells the MA that his provider's office is incompetent, as there is no improvement in his condition. Which
of the following is an appropriate response for the assistant to make?
a) "I think that you feel that your treatment is not effective."
b) "I'm sure that the provider can help you get better."
c) "That isn't fair. Our office treats many patients successfully."
d) "You could take a different medication and then you'll feel better."
c) compile a list of local community agencies
The first step is to research, identify, and create a list of local community resources and services. Correct
Answer-An MA is preparing a community resource library. Which of the following actions should the
assistant take first?
a) collect feedback from patients about their experiences with the resources
b) update the community resource information
c) compile a list of local community agencies
d) make a spreadsheet that has the contact information of services
b) daytime phone numberPatient's name, phone number, and brief description of reason for visit should be on the appointment
calendar. Does not need diagnosis code, DOB, or identification number in the calendar. Correct AnswerWhich of the following should the MA enter into the appointment calendar when scheduling a patient
for a skin rash?
a) diagnosis code for dermatitis
b) daytime phone number
c) date of birth
d) patient's identification number
b) "Liniments contain a higher portion of oil than medicated lotions." Correct Answer-A patient asks an
MA to explain the difference between a liniment and a medicated lotion. Which of the following
responses is correct?
a) "Medicated lotions are used to treat disorders in the muscle and bones."
b) "Liniments contain a higher portion of oil than medicated lotions."
c) "Liniments are used to control itching."
d) "Medicated lotions are emulsions used to protect dried or cracked skin."b) lift the first knot away from the skin Correct Answer-An MA is removing sutures from a patient who
has a laceration on the left lower leg. After setting up the sterile field, which of the following actions
should the MA take?
a) discard each of the sutures
b) lift the first knot away from the skin
c) cut the knot to remove it from the suture
d) use bandage scissors to cut the suture
a) just above the knee Correct Answer-An MA is reviewing a patient's recent medical Hx and notes that
she has a healing fracture of the distal femur. Where on the patient's body should the assistant expect
to find the injury?
a) just above the knee
b) just above the elbow
c) just below the hip
d) just below the shoulder
a) review that days' encounter forms to determine if another patient received the services Correct
Answer-A patient reports getting a bill that includes services she did not receive. Which of the following
actions should the MA take to reconcile these charges?a) review that days' encounter forms to determine if another patient received the services
b) instruct the patient to pay for the services to avoid collection procedures
c) ask the provider to write off the charges on the patient's account
d) determine if the patient has a previous balance
d) head circumference Correct Answer-An MA is monitoring an infant patient for microcephaly. Which
of the following describes the anthropometric measurement that the assistant should perform?
a) length
b) weight
c) chest circumference
d) head circumference
d) call the pharmacy to confirm the receipt of the faxed prescription Correct Answer-An MA is faxing a
prescription to a patient's pharmacy. Which of the following actions should the MA take?
a) send the prescription without a cover page
b) shred the confirmation of transmission message to ensure the patient's privacy
c) request that the provider
d) call the pharmacy to confirm the receipt of the faxed prescriptiond) remain within the patient's view to allow lip-reading Correct Answer-An MA is collecting a health
history from an older adult patient who exhibits moderate hearing loss. Which of the following actions
should the assistant take?
a) keep her hands still to avoid distracting the patient
b) speak with a raised pitch when clarifying information
c) use longer sentences to keep the patient's attention
d) remain within the patient's view to allow lip-reading
b) a fast and steady flow with no variability Correct Answer-An MA is performing spirometry testing for a
patient who has shortness of breath. Which of the following results of the spirometry test indicates a
successful maneuver?
a) a slow and progressive start
b) a fast and steady flow with no variability
c) an exhalation of 3 seconds
d) light coughing during the test
d) check capillary refill in the patient's fingerIf capillary refill is adequate (2 seconds or less) then the MA may apply the sensor to the finger.
Otherwise, attach it to the earlobe or nose. Additionally, you do not need to report a pulse ox reading to
the provider unless it is below 95%. Correct Answer-An MA is measuring a patient's oxygen saturation
with a pulse oximeter. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?
a) report a reading of 97% to the provider
b) wash the site with soap and water
c) instruct the patient to take several deep breaths while the sensor is in place
d) check capillary refill in the patient's finger
a) "I will roll the bottle between my hands before drawing the medication."
The patient should do this to ensure the medication is suspended properly. They should also rotate
injections sites and inject at a 45- to 90-degree angle. Correct Answer-An MA is reinforcing teaching with
a patient about the self-administration of insulin injections. Which of the following patient statements
indicates an understanding of the teaching?
a) "I will roll the bottle between my hands before drawing the medication."
b) "I will blow on the site to make sure the alcohol dries."
c) "I will consistently use the same site for my injections."
d) "I will hold the needle at a 15-degree angle for the injection."a) 30 mm Hg above the radial pulse cessation
For the palpatory method, you should palpate the radial pulse and inflate the pressure of the cuff to 30
mm Hg above when you feel the radial pulse disappear. Correct Answer-When performing the palpatory
method for obtaining blood pressure, which of the following indicates the level at which the MA should
inlate the cuff?
a) 30 mm Hg above the radial pulse cessation
b) 30 mm Hg above the brachial pulse cessation
c) 30 mm Hg above the reappearance of the radial pulse
d) 30 mm Hg above the reappearance of the brachial pulse
b) diagnosis code
Without a supported diagnosis code, the provider will not receive reimbursement for the procedure
Correct Answer-Which of the following items included on the CMS-1500 claim form should an MA
recognize as indicating the medical necessity of a procedure?
a) modifier
b) diagnosis code
c) chargesd) place of service
b) home health care
Home health care organizations provide assistance with medications, wound care, and other services
needed in a patient's own home. Correct Answer-A provider examines an older adult patient who is
disabled and has a lesion on her arm. An MA should anticipate a referral for this patient to which of the
following ancillary services?
a) diagnostic services
b) home health care
c) rehabilitation services
d) hospice care
c) $40
The patient owes $20 for his copayment and is responsible for 10% of the $200 (coinsurance), which is
$20. In total, the patient owes $40. Correct Answer-An MA is determining the amount a patient will be
required to pay for a scheduled procedure that has an allowable amount of $200. The patient has a $20
copayment, a 90/10 coinsurance, and has met his deductible. What is the total amount the patient is
expected to pay the provider for this procedure?a) $20
b) $30
c) $40
d) $50
b) pears with skin
All of the answers contain 0.5g-1.0g of insoluble fiber, but pears with skin have the most fiber at 4g per
serving. Correct Answer-An MA is encouraging a patient to increase her intake of insoluble fiber to help
prevent constipation and hemorrhoids. Which of the following foods should the MA recommend as the
best source of insoluble fiber?
a) cooked white rice
b) pears with skin
c) strawberries
d) popcorn
c) hold sharps by the blunt end to avoid a needlestick injury
(A) is incorrect because you should not re-cap needles as this increases the risk for needlestick injury. (B)
is incorrect because unused ampules should be restocked. (D) is incorrect because the sharps containergets disposed of when it is 2/3 full. Correct Answer-An MA is cleaning an examination room after
assisting a provider with a biopsy. Which of the following actions should the MA take?
a) place the caps back on the needles to reduce of puncturing the sharps container
b) break off the tops of unused ampules and discard the liquid
c) hold sharps by the blunt end to avoid a needlestick injury
d) dispose of the sharps container once it is completely full
b) dispose of the linen hamper's contents as a biohazard Correct Answer-A provider places an open
sharps container in the linen hamper by mistake. Which of the following actions is appropriate for the
MA to take?
a) question the provider
b) dispose of the linen hamper's contents as a biohazard
c) disinfect the contents of the linen hamper with bleach
d) prepare a report for OSHA
a) to prove the office was not negligent Correct Answer-A patient calls the clinic to cancel a
postoperative appointment and states that she will reschedule at a later date. For which of the following
reasons should the MA document this information on the patient's chart?a) to prove the office was not negligent
b) to explain the loss of revenue
c) to deny future appointments
d) to demonstrate confidentiality
d) consult with the provider before continuing to process the prescription Correct Answer-An MA is
entering a new prescription into a patient's EMR. While entering the prescription, an alert notifying the
MA of a medication interaction appears on the screen. Which of the following actions should the MA
take?
a) override the alert and enter the prescription
b) call the pharmacist to obtain information about alternative medications
c) notify the patient of possible interactions with the prescribed medication
d) consult with the provider before continuing to process the prescription
a) airborne
Varicella zoster (chicken pox) is spread by air and contact. Correct Answer-An MA is caring for a child
who has varicella zoster virus. The MA should recognize this virus is transferred through which of the
following modes of transmission?a) airborne
b) bloodborne
c) vector-borne
d) foodborne
a) observe the patient as she performs a self-demonstration Correct Answer-Which of the following
techniques should an MA use to confirm a patient's understanding of insulin administration?
a) observe the patient as she performs a self-demonstration
b) provide the patient with written instructions
c) offer the patient a website to visit for instructions
d) repeat the instructions to the patient
d) leads I, II, and III Correct Answer-Which of the following groups of EKG leads are bipolar?
a) leads V1, V2, and V3
b) leads V4, V5, and V6
c) leads aVR, aVL, and aVF
d) leads I, II, and IIIb) American Red Cross Correct Answer-An MA is talking with a patient who is experiencing home
displacement following a hurricane. To which of the following resources should the assistant refer the
patient for information, support, and links to community services?
a) Dept. of Health and Human Services
b) American Red Cross
c) National Council on Aging
d) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
c) abdomen
For people with BKAs, the abdomen or thighs are appropriate alternative sites for EKG lead placement.
Correct Answer-An MA is preparing a patient who has bilateral below-the-knee amputations (BKA) for
an EKG. Which of the following sites should the MA select for electrode placement?
a) lower arms
b) elbows
c) abdomen
d) kneesb) apply a thin ribbon of ointment along the conjunctival sac Correct Answer-An MA is administering eye
ointment to a patient. Which of the following actions should the MA take?
a) hold the ointment tube parallel to and above the patient's eye
b) apply a thin ribbon of ointment along the conjunctival sac
c) apply the ointment from the outer canthus to the inner canthus
d) have the patient keep her eye open after the application
c) Whistleblower Act Correct Answer-Which of the following pieces of legislation keeps health care staff
safe from retaliation by their employers when they report cases of patient neglect and abuse?
a) Good Samaritan Act
b) HITECH Act
c) Whistleblower Act
d) Patient's Bill of Rights
a) vigorously dry the patient's skin prior to electrode placement Correct Answer-When preparing a
patient for a Holter monitor, which of the following actions should an MA take?
a) vigorously dry the patient's skin prior to electrode placementb) apply the electrodes while the patient is in a standing position
c) ensure tension is on the lead wires after electrodes are in place
d) wash the patient's skin with soap and water prior to electrode placement
c) parentage testing
Chain of custody guidelines apply to drug screens, forensic studies, blood alcohol levels, and parentage
testing. Correct Answer-An MA should follow chain of custody guidelines for which of the following
types of lab results?
a) digoxin levels
b) blood cultures
c) parentage testing
d) lead levels
d) a tongue blade Correct Answer-An MA is preparing to apply ointment to several abrasions on a
patient's leg. Which of the following supplies should the MA use to remove medication from the jar?
a) a gloved finger
b) a syringec) a cotton ball
d) a tongue blade
a) the 5th intercostal space, left midclavicular line Correct Answer-In which of the following locations
should an MA place the electrode for lead V4?
a) the 5th intercostal space, left midclavicular line
b) the 4th intercostal space, left sternal border
c) the left midaxillary line, lateral to V5
d) the anterior axillary line, lateral to V6
c) paid in full by workers' comp Correct Answer-A patient arrives at a clinic with a bill for X-rays that
were required due to an injury at the patient's place of employment. The patient has private insurance
and is eligible for workers' comp. The MA should recognize that which of the following parties is
responsible for payment of the bill?
a) paid in full by the patient
b) pain in full by the patient's private insurance
c) paid in full by workers' comp
d) paid in part by private insurance and in part by workers' compd) ask the patient if he hears the vibration louder in one ear than the other
The Weber test is performed to determine if hearing is better in one ear than the other. Correct AnswerAn MA is checking a patient's hearing using the Weber test. Which of the following actions should the
MA take?
a) position a vibrating tuning fork over the patient's mastoid process
b) invert vibrating tuning fork while the patient still hears the sound
c) instruct the patient to raise his hand when he no longer hears any sound
d) ask the patient if he hears the vibration louder in one ear than the other
b) rectal Correct Answer-What is the most accurate method to take a patient's temperature?
a) axillary
b) rectal
c) oral
d) temporal
a) papulesPapules are solid elevations that are <0.5 cm in diameter. Macules are a different color than the
surrounding skin and are flat with no elevation or depression. Vesicles are small fluid-filled blisters, such
as herpes. Pustules are pus-filled blisters, such as acne. Correct Answer-An MA is examining the skin on
a patient's forearm where the patient reports a developing rash. The MA notes multiple solid elevations
that are less than 0.5 cm in diameter. Which of the following terms should be used to document his
observations in the patient's medical record?
a) papules
b) macules
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