These CMA practice questions target diagnostics — including QC, Medical Assistant. The complete CMA deck holds 1050 flashcards, 90 of them dedicated to this topic. Study the free samples below, then unlock the whole collection for a one-time $7.
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When performing a distance visual acuity test using a Snellen chart on an adult patient, what is the standard distance the patient should stand from the chart, and what is the standard sequence for testing the eyes?
Show answer →The patient stands 20 feet from the chart. Sequence: 1. Right eye (OD), 2. Left eye (OS), 3. Both eyes (OU). Patients should keep both eyes open while using an occluder to prevent squinting, which can artificially improve results. AAMA Exam Tip: If the patient wears corrective lenses (except reading glasses), they should remain on during the test, and the MA must document "cc" (with correction). If tested without, document "sc" (without correction). Common distractor: 10 feet is for pediatric/specialized charts, not the standard Snellen.
What are the CLIA-waived quality control (QC) requirements for the handling and storage of urine reagent strips in a medical office?
Show answer →1. Store strips in the original container with the cap tightly closed. 2. Store at room temperature (do not refrigerate or freeze). 3. Check expiration dates before every use. 4. Do not touch the reagent pads. 5. Perform QC testing (positive and negative controls) daily, when a new bottle is opened, or if results are questioned. 6. Discard strips if the desiccant is missing or if pads are discolored. Failure to follow these steps invalidates patient results.
A Medical Assistant is preparing a wound swab for transport to an outside reference lab. Why is it essential to place the swab into a transport medium (e.g., Stuart or Amies) immediately after collection?
Show answer →Transport media is designed to maintain the viability of microorganisms without allowing them to multiply. It prevents the specimen from drying out and maintains a stable pH. It does NOT contain nutrients for growth (which would alter the quantitative balance of the flora) but preserves the snapshot of the infection site until it can be plated on growth media in the lab. Always check expiration dates on transport tubes.
While performing an EKG, the CMA notes the ST segment is 2mm below the isoelectric line in leads V4, V5, and V6. What does this finding specifically suggest?
Show answer →Myocardial Ischemia or ventricular strain. Rational: ST-segment depression (≥0.5mm) is a sign of ischemia (lack of oxygen to the heart muscle). In contrast, ST-segment elevation (STEMI) suggests myocardial injury or infarction. AAMA Role: CMAs must be able to identify ST-segment deviations from the isoelectric line and report them to the provider immediately.
An MA is instructing a patient on Holter monitor use. Why is it vital the patient records the exact time of symptoms like palpitations or dizziness in their diary?
Show answer →The primary purpose of Holter monitoring is to correlate the patient's symptoms with the simultaneous EKG rhythm. Without an accurate diary (including time, activity, and symptom), the cardiologist cannot determine if a specific arrhythmia caused the patient's clinical complaint. **MA Action:** Emphasize that activities like climbing stairs or sleeping should also be noted if they trigger symptoms.
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Try 30 free CMA cards firstThe full CMA deck contains 1050 flashcards, and 90 of them focus on diagnostics. This page shows 5 free samples.
Our CMA deck dedicates 90 of 1050 cards (9%) to diagnostics — always cross-check the official AAMA exam outline for the current blueprint weighting.
Yes — the samples on this page are free, and the CMA preview page has 30 more free cards. Full access to all 1050 cards is a one-time $7.
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Ethics
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