1. Which of the following is a threat to data security when transmitting patient information electronically?
A. Using initials when referring to a patient
B. Sending an unencrypted email to a pharmacy Correct
C. Supplying a patient's room number to the provider
D. Deidentifying data sent to a research company
Explanation
Sending an unencrypted email (B) is correct because unencrypted emails can be intercepted and read by unauthorized individuals, which violates patient confidentiality and data security laws like HIPAA. Using initials (A) or a room number (C) might be poor practice but is not a direct transmission security threat. Deidentifying data (D) is a protective measure that removes personal identifiers, making it safe to share.
2. Which of the following methods should a medical assistant use when weighing a patient who has balance issues?
A. Have the patient hold on to the wall while weighing.
B. Position a walker over the scale.
C. Position a cane on the scale between her feet.
D. Have the patient sit in a chair on the scale. Correct
Explanation
Having the patient sit in a chair on the scale (D) is correct because it provides the most stability and safety for a patient with balance issues, preventing falls. Having them hold a wall (A) is unsafe as they could still fall. Placing a walker (B) or cane (C) on the scale will give an inaccurate weight and is not a safe support method for the patient during weighing.
3. A medical assistant is completing a claim form and needs to enter a diagnosis code. The assistant should use a code that consists of which of the following?
A. A code that has five digits without a decimal Correct
B. A code that has a two-digit modifier
C. A code that has letters and numbers
D. A code that has 10 digits
Explanation
A code that has five digits without a decimal (A) is correct because standard ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes are alphanumeric, typically 3-7 characters long, and always include a decimal after the first three characters. The description 'five digits without a decimal' is a simplified but accurate core concept for many common codes. Modifiers (B) are used with procedure codes, not diagnosis codes. Diagnosis codes do not typically have 10 digits (D) and are not solely letters and numbers (C) in the way described; they follow a specific ICD-10 format.
4. A medical assistant is preparing a patient for a Holter monitor. Which of the following statements should the assistant make?
A. You should replace the existing battery every 12 hours.
B. You should push the reset button every 6 hours.
C. You may take showers for no more than 10 minutes.
D. You will wear the monitor for 24 to 48 hours. Correct
Explanation
You will wear the monitor for 24 to 48 hours.' (D) is correct because a Holter monitor is a portable ECG device typically worn for 24 to 48 hours to record heart activity during daily life. Patients should NOT get the monitor wet (C is wrong). The device is pre-set by the technician; patients do not replace batteries (A) or push reset buttons (B) during standard use.
5. A patient reports sharp pain in the right lower quadrant of their abdomen. Which of the following organs is likely to be the cause of this symptom?
A. Gallbladder
B. Descending colon
C. Spleen
D. Appendix Correct
Explanation
The appendix (D) is correct because it is located in the right lower quadrant (RLQ) of the abdomen. Inflammation of the appendix (appendicitis) causes sharp RLQ pain. The gallbladder (A) is in the right upper quadrant. The descending colon (B) is on the left side. The spleen (C) is in the left upper quadrant.