Free CMA Practice Test: 200 Comprehensive Questions
Welcome to our extensive practice guide for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam.
This page contains 200 multiple-choice questions covering clinical procedures, legal frameworks (HIPAA), administrative duties, and patient care.
Study Tip: Treat these questions like the real exam. Read the scenario carefully before looking at the answers.
Prefer to study offline? Download the PDF version here.
1. A 27-year-old patient arrives 15 minutes late for a routine physical exam. The schedule is fully booked, and the physician is already running behind. What is the BEST first step for the medical assistant?
Correct Answer: C. Inform the provider and ask how to adjust the schedule
2. While rooming a patient, the medical assistant notices a strong odor of alcohol on the patient’s breath. The patient is here for a fasting blood glucose test and denies drinking. What is the MOST appropriate action?
Correct Answer: B. Document the observation and notify the provider
3. A patient hands the medical assistant a written complaint about a billing issue. What should the medical assistant do FIRST?
Correct Answer: C. Follow office policy for routing written complaints to the office manager
4. Which of the following is an example of open-ended questioning to obtain a patient history?
Correct Answer: C. Tell me more about when your symptoms started.
5. A 9-year-old child is in the office for an immunization and appears very anxious, clinging to the parent. What is the BEST approach?
Correct Answer: C. Speak calmly at the child’s eye level and explain in simple terms
6. In the medical record, which abbreviation is NOT appropriate because it can easily be misinterpreted?
Correct Answer: C. QD
7. A patient calls to request lab results. According to HIPAA, what must the medical assistant verify BEFORE releasing information over the phone?
Correct Answer: B. Patient’s name, date of birth, and another approved identifier
8. When scheduling a patient for a new patient physical exam, which information is MOST important to obtain?
Correct Answer: B. Patient’s insurance information and reason for visit
9. A provider asks the medical assistant to obtain informed consent for a minor office surgery. What is the medical assistant’s appropriate role?
Correct Answer: C. Witness the patient’s signature after the provider explains the procedure
10. A patient with limited English proficiency arrives without an interpreter. What is the BEST action to ensure effective communication?
Correct Answer: A. Use a qualified medical interpreter service according to office policy
11. Which of the following is the correct order of draw for venipuncture using evacuated tubes?
Correct Answer: B. Light blue, red/gold, green, lavender, gray
12. A medical assistant accidentally sticks themselves with a used needle after drawing a patient’s blood. What is the FIRST action they should take?
Correct Answer: B. Wash the area with soap and water immediately
13. When taking an adult’s blood pressure, where should the lower edge of the cuff be positioned?
Correct Answer: B. 1 inch above the antecubital fossa
14. A 35-year-old patient reports dizziness when standing. Orthostatic vital signs are ordered. Which sequence is correct?
Correct Answer: A. Supine, sitting, standing
15. What is the MOST accurate method for measuring a toddler’s temperature in the clinic?
Correct Answer: B. Rectal digital thermometer
16. A patient is prescribed 500 mg of a medication, but the stock strength is 250 mg tablets. How many tablets should the medical assistant prepare?
Correct Answer: B. 2 tablets
17. A 22-year-old patient faints while having blood drawn. After ensuring airway and breathing, what is the next step?
Correct Answer: B. Place the patient in a supine position with legs elevated
18. For a routine intramuscular injection in an adult deltoid, what is the typical needle length?
Correct Answer: C. 1–1½ inch
19. Which of the following is part of the medical assistant’s role in medication administration?
Correct Answer: C. Verifying the “five rights” before administering
20. A medical assistant is documenting in an electronic health record and makes a typographical error. What is the CORRECT way to fix it?
Correct Answer: B. Use the EHR’s correction function so the original entry remains viewable
21. Which of the following microorganisms commonly causes strep throat?
Correct Answer: B. Streptococcus pyogenes
22. A patient with suspected influenza is coughing frequently in the waiting room. What is the BEST infection control measure?
Correct Answer: A. Offer a mask and move the patient to an exam room as soon as possible
23. Which of the following is considered a CLIA-waived test commonly performed in ambulatory settings?
Correct Answer: C. Urine pregnancy test by immunoassay
24. A provider orders a throat culture. Which action by the medical assistant is CORRECT during specimen collection?
Correct Answer: B. Avoid touching the swab to the tongue, cheeks, or teeth
25. When filing paper medical records, which system organizes charts by household or family?
Correct Answer: D. Family name with color coding
26. A medical assistant receives a phone call from a patient requesting a refill on a controlled substance. What is the MOST appropriate action?
Correct Answer: C. Take a message and route it to the provider for approval
27. Which office document provides instructions for handling and cleaning up chemical spills such as disinfectants or lab reagents?
Correct Answer: B. MSDS/SDS (Safety Data Sheet)
28. A 45-year-old patient complains of chest tightness while sitting in the waiting room. What is the medical assistant’s FIRST priority?
Correct Answer: C. Activate emergency response and notify the provider immediately
29. When performing an ECG, where should the V4 chest electrode be placed?
Correct Answer: C. 5th intercostal space, midclavicular line
30. A medical assistant is preparing a sterile tray for a minor procedure. After opening the sterile pack, they accidentally brush their sleeve against the inside of the tray. What should they do?
Correct Answer: C. Consider the tray contaminated and set up a new sterile field
31. Which of the following vital signs would be MOST concerning in an adult patient?
Correct Answer: C. BP 90/58, HR 120, RR 26
32. The term “bradycardia” refers to:
Correct Answer: B. Slow heart rate
33. A patient writes an angry online review about the office, mentioning details of their diagnosis. How should the medical assistant respond if asked to answer publicly?
Correct Answer: B. Respond politely but NEVER disclose any personal health information
34. A patient is scheduled for a fasting lipid panel at 9:00 AM. Which instruction is MOST accurate?
Correct Answer: A. No food or drink after midnight except water
35. Which of the following best describes implied consent?
Correct Answer: C. Patient rolls up sleeve to receive an injection
36. The primary purpose of the HIPAA Privacy Rule is to:
Correct Answer: B. Protect patient health information
37. A patient with a history of domestic violence is in the office with a controlling partner. The partner insists on staying in the exam room during questioning. What should the medical assistant do?
Correct Answer: B. Politely request to speak with the patient alone for part of the visit
38. Which of the following blood pressure readings is classified as Stage 2 hypertension according to common guidelines?
Correct Answer: D. 162/98 mmHg
39. A patient with diabetes asks how frequently they should have a foot exam in the clinic. Which response is MOST appropriate?
Correct Answer: B. Annually, at minimum, or more often if problems occur.
40. A medical assistant is instructed to collect a clean-catch midstream urine specimen. Which instruction is CORRECT?
Correct Answer: B. Cleanse the area, begin voiding, then collect midstream urine in the cup
41. A 54-year-old patient presents with shortness of breath and swelling in both ankles. The provider asks the medical assistant to obtain daily weights for monitoring. What is the BEST way to obtain accurate daily weights?
Correct Answer: C. Weigh the patient at the same time each day, with similar clothing
42. During a capillary blood glucose check, which action helps prevent hemolysis and inaccurate readings?
Correct Answer: C. Wiping away the first drop of blood
43. A patient becomes verbally aggressive at the front desk because of perceived long wait times. What is the MOST appropriate response by the medical assistant?
Correct Answer: C. Stay calm, acknowledge their frustration, and offer assistance
44. A 32-year-old patient asks for a copy of their medical record. Under HIPAA, what is the correct response?
Correct Answer: B. Provide a copy after following office policy and obtaining proper authorization
45. The physician orders an intradermal (ID) injection for a TB test. Where should the medical assistant administer it?
Correct Answer: C. Posterior upper arm, 15-degree angle, bevel up
46. Which of the following is an appropriate method for disinfecting a clinical surface after a procedure?
Correct Answer: B. Use EPA-registered disinfectant and follow contact-time instructions
47. A 19-year-old patient calls stating she forgot to take her oral contraceptive pill yesterday. What should the medical assistant do FIRST?
Correct Answer: C. Refer to provider's standing orders or notify provider
48. A pediatric patient requires liquid amoxicillin 200 mg. The stock bottle contains 400 mg/5 mL. How many mL should be administered?
Correct Answer: B. 2.5 mL
49. Which type of scheduling method involves grouping similar appointments together during a specific time block?
Correct Answer: D. Cluster (categorization) scheduling
50. A pregnant patient requires blood pressure measurement. Which position is MOST appropriate?
Correct Answer: C. Semi-Fowler’s or seated upright
51. When documenting subjective information in the medical record, which statement belongs in the “S” of SOAP?
Correct Answer: C. Patient reports sharp pain in left knee
52. Which insurance plan requires selecting a primary care provider (PCP) and obtaining referrals for specialists?
Correct Answer: B. HMO
53. A patient signs an “Assignment of Benefits” form. What does this authorize?
Correct Answer: B. The provider to receive payment directly from the insurance
54. What is the correct procedure for weighing an infant?
Correct Answer: B. Weigh the mother first, then weigh mother holding infant, subtract
55. Which injection site is appropriate for a 4-month-old infant receiving vaccines?
Correct Answer: C. Vastus lateralis
56. A patient’s pulse is irregular. What is the BEST way to obtain an accurate measurement?
Correct Answer: D. Count for a full 60 seconds
57. What is the purpose of quality control (QC) logs for CLIA-waived tests?
Correct Answer: B. To verify test accuracy and reliability
58. Which statement about sterile gloves is CORRECT?
Correct Answer: B. Hands should remain above the waist to maintain sterility
59. A patient states they do not understand their new medication instructions. What communication technique is MOST effective?
Correct Answer: C. Use the teach-back method
60. A patient with suspected dehydration requires measurement of skin turgor. Where is the BEST place to check in adults?
Correct Answer: D. Chest or forehead
61. Which type of urine specimen is BEST for culture and sensitivity (C&S)?
Correct Answer: B. Clean-catch midstream
62. A patient with COPD uses a metered-dose inhaler with poor technique. What should the medical assistant recommend?
Correct Answer: B. Use a spacer device for improved delivery
63. A patient’s insurance does NOT cover a procedure. What is required before performing the service?
Correct Answer: A. Waiver/Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN)
64. A patient with hypoglycemia is conscious but confused. What is the MOST appropriate first step?
Correct Answer: C. Provide 15 g of fast-acting carbohydrate
65. When preparing an injection from a multi-dose vial, what must the medical assistant do FIRST?
Correct Answer: B. Clean the rubber stopper with alcohol
66. A patient requires a visual acuity test using the Snellen chart. Which instruction is CORRECT?
Correct Answer: C. Stand 20 feet from the chart, testing one eye at a time
67. What is the normal oxygen saturation range in a healthy adult?
Correct Answer: C. 95–100%
68. Which of the following is an example of fraud?
Correct Answer: A. Billing for a service not performed
69. A patient refuses a flu vaccine. What must the medical assistant do?
Correct Answer: B. Document the refusal in the medical record
70. Which action helps prevent specimen hemolysis during venipuncture?
Correct Answer: C. Allowing alcohol to dry completely before venipuncture
71. A patient asks about a medical term they do not understand. What is the BEST approach?
Correct Answer: B. Explain the term in simple, understandable language
72. What is the correct angle for a subcutaneous (SQ) injection using a 5/8-inch needle?
Correct Answer: B. 45 degrees
73. A 4-year-old child requires a blood pressure reading. What type of cuff should be used?
Correct Answer: C. Pediatric cuff sized to cover 40% of arm circumference
74. During CPR, what is the recommended compression rate for adults?
Correct Answer: C. 100–120/min
75. A patient with asthma presents with wheezing and shortness of breath. The provider orders pulse oximetry. Where should the probe be placed?
Correct Answer: A. Earlobe or fingertip
76. A patient requires a Holter monitor. What instructions should the medical assistant provide?
Correct Answer: B. Keep a diary of symptoms and activities
77. Which of the following requires immediate reporting to public health authorities?
Correct Answer: C. Gonorrhea
78. A patient complains of burning during urination. Which test is MOST appropriate to perform first?
Correct Answer: B. UA with dipstick
79. The medical assistant must process an insurance claim electronically. What standardized form is used for outpatient billing?
Correct Answer: A. CMS-1500
80. A patient with severe anxiety becomes short of breath during rooming. What is the MOST appropriate immediate action?
Correct Answer: B. Provide reassurance and encourage slow, deep breathing
81. A patient is extremely upset about a high bill and begins yelling at the front desk. Other patients are watching. What is the BEST first response from the medical assistant?
Correct Answer: C. Move the conversation to a more private area and listen to concerns
82. A 16-year-old comes in for a well-child visit and asks to speak privately about contraception. The parent is in the waiting room. What should the medical assistant do?
Correct Answer: B. Explain confidentiality rules and bring the patient to a private room
83. A patient is scheduled for a minor surgical procedure. Which of the following is the medical assistant’s responsibility in pre-op?
Correct Answer: B. Obtain written informed consent after provider explains
84. In standard infection control, which PPE is MOST appropriate when there is a risk of blood splatter during a procedure?
Correct Answer: C. Gloves, gown, mask, and eye protection
85. A patient calls and reports chest pain and shortness of breath that began 10 minutes ago while resting. What should the medical assistant advise?
Correct Answer: C. Instruct the patient to hang up and dial emergency services (911)
86. An established patient asks for a copy of their latest lab results to take to a specialist. What is the MOST appropriate action?
Correct Answer: B. Provide a copy after verifying identity and following office release protocol
87. When educating a patient about a low-sodium diet, the medical assistant should use which strategy to improve understanding and adherence?
Correct Answer: C. Give specific food examples and ask for teach-back
88. A diabetic patient presents with a blood glucose reading of 42 mg/dL on the office meter but feels “fine.” What is the BEST next step?
Correct Answer: B. Recheck using a new strip and then follow hypoglycemia protocol if confirmed
89. A patient experiences a generalized seizure in the waiting room. What should the medical assistant do FIRST?
Correct Answer: C. Protect the patient from injury and call for help
90. A new employee asks how long to wash hands with soap and water according to standard guidelines. What is the BEST answer?
Correct Answer: C. At least 20 seconds
91. A patient’s blood pressure reading is 182/110 mmHg with new-onset headache and blurred vision. What should the medical assistant do?
Correct Answer: C. Notify the provider immediately as this may be hypertensive urgency/emergency
92. A 4-year-old child is in the office for immunizations and begins crying and resisting. Which approach is MOST appropriate?
Correct Answer: B. Use a calm, firm approach and have a caregiver help gently restrain if needed
93. A patient calls to cancel a same-day appointment. Which action helps maintain good scheduling practice?
Correct Answer: C. Document the cancellation and attempt to fill the slot from a waitlist
94. When performing a fingerstick, why should the puncture be made slightly off-center from the fingertip pad?
Correct Answer: B. To reduce pain and improve blood flow
95. A patient is scheduled for a Pap smear. Which position is typically used for this exam?
Correct Answer: B. Lithotomy
96. Which of the following is considered PHI (Protected Health Information)?
Correct Answer: C. Patient’s name and diagnosis together
97. Which measurement is typically plotted on a pediatric growth chart?
Correct Answer: B. Height, weight, and head circumference
98. A patient is asked to sign a HIPAA acknowledgment form. What does this form indicate?
Correct Answer: B. They received notice of the office’s privacy practices
99. When performing ear irrigation, which direction should the pinna be pulled in an adult?
Correct Answer: B. Up and back
100. A patient undergoing spirometry must be instructed to:
Correct Answer: B. Take a deep breath and exhale forcefully into the mouthpiece
101. A patient is angry after receiving a denial from their insurance company. They ask, “What should I do?” What is the BEST response?
Correct Answer: B. “You may file an appeal; we can provide documentation as needed.”
102. When documenting an allergy to penicillin, which information is MOST important to include?
Correct Answer: B. Type of reaction (e.g., rash, anaphylaxis)
103. A human resources form that verifies an employee’s eligibility to work in the United States is called:
Correct Answer: B. I-9
104. A medical assistant is asked to obtain a sterile urine specimen from a catheterized patient. What is the correct method?
Correct Answer: C. Aspirate urine from the sampling port using sterile technique
105. Which of the following is a common sign of shock?
Correct Answer: C. Rapid pulse, low blood pressure, cool clammy skin
106. What is the BEST way to handle a patient’s question that the medical assistant cannot answer?
Correct Answer: C. State that you are unsure and offer to ask the provider or appropriate person
107. A provider orders “CBC, fasting.” What is the primary purpose of the CBC?
Correct Answer: C. Evaluate red and white blood cells and platelets
108. A patient with a BMI of 33 falls into which weight category?
Correct Answer: D. Obese
109. A 3-year-old child is in the clinic for a well visit. Which immunization is typically due around this age (depending on schedule/completion)?
Correct Answer: B. MMR and Varicella boosters
110. When labeling a blood specimen tube at the point of collection, what information is MOST important?
Correct Answer: B. Date and time, patient’s full name, and other required identifiers
111. A patient report shows an elevated LDL and low HDL. This pattern suggests increased risk for:
Correct Answer: B. Cardiovascular disease
112. Which of the following is MOST important when using an autoclave for instrument sterilization?
Correct Answer: B. Proper time, temperature, and pressure
113. A patient calls with a new onset of rash and difficulty breathing after starting an antibiotic. What is the FIRST instruction?
Correct Answer: C. Stop the medication and seek emergency care immediately
114. A 7-year-old child is scheduled for a hearing screening. Which type of test is commonly used?
Correct Answer: B. Tympanometry or audiometry
115. Which of the following is an example of a closed-ended question?
Correct Answer: C. “Is the pain constant or does it come and go?”
116. In the SOAP format, which of the following is an example of an “Objective” entry?
Correct Answer: C. “BP 140/90, HR 96, lungs clear.”
117. When calling in a prescription refill to a pharmacy (if authorized and per policy), what should the medical assistant verify?
Correct Answer: B. Patient’s name, DOB, medication name, strength, and directions
118. A patient is upset that their copay increased. The medical assistant should:
Correct Answer: A. Explain that copay amounts are determined by their insurance plan
119. A patient is asked to sign a consent for release of information to another provider. What must be clearly stated on the form?
Correct Answer: B. Specific information to be disclosed and to whom
120. Which of the following is MOST important when documenting in a patient’s chart?
Correct Answer: B. Use precise, factual, and timely entries
121. A child arrives for a scheduled immunization, but the parent cannot find the child’s immunization record. What should the medical assistant do FIRST?
Correct Answer: C. Attempt to verify immunization history from previous providers or state registry
122. The provider asks the medical assistant to perform a peak flow measurement for an asthma patient. What instruction is CORRECT?
Correct Answer: B. “Take a deep breath and blow out as hard and fast as you can.”
123. For a patient with a history of fainting during blood draws, what is the BEST positioning for venipuncture?
Correct Answer: C. Lying in a supine position
124. A patient’s urinalysis shows positive nitrites and leukocyte esterase. These findings are MOST consistent with:
Correct Answer: B. Urinary tract infection
125. Which of the following describes a deductible?
Correct Answer: B. The amount the patient must pay before insurance begins to pay
126. Which lead on a standard 12-lead ECG is considered a “ground” and does not record a view of the heart?
Correct Answer: D. Right leg (RL) electrode
127. A medical assistant is setting up for a pelvic exam and Pap test. Which items are typically needed?
Correct Answer: A. Speculum, lubricating jelly (if approved), gloves, cytology brush/spatula, slides or liquid-based vial
128. A patient says, “I don’t think this treatment will help.” Which is the MOST therapeutic response?
Correct Answer: C. “Can you tell me more about your concerns regarding the treatment?”
129. A provider documents: “DX: HTN, DM2, and OA.” What do these abbreviations stand for?
Correct Answer: A. Hypertension, diabetes mellitus type 2, osteoarthritis
130. In an emergency with heavy bleeding from a deep laceration, what is the FIRST action?
Correct Answer: A. Apply direct pressure with a clean dressing
131. A patient scheduled for a fasting blood draw arrives drinking coffee with cream. What should the medical assistant do?
Correct Answer: C. Inform the provider; rescheduling may be necessary
132. Which document serves as a legal record of all services billed by the provider to an insurance company?
Correct Answer: C. Day sheet
133. What is the primary purpose of triage in a medical office?
Correct Answer: B. Determine the order in which patients should be seen based on urgency
134. A patient is instructed to monitor their blood pressure at home. Which advice is MOST accurate?
Correct Answer: B. Use a cuff that fits properly and measure at the same time each day
135. When performing a capillary puncture on an infant’s heel, where should the puncture be made?
Correct Answer: B. Lateral or medial plantar surface
136. Which of the following is considered a normal adult respiratory rate?
Correct Answer: C. 16 breaths per minute
137. A medical assistant is preparing to send a specimen to an outside lab. What must match exactly on the specimen label and the requisition form?
Correct Answer: B. Patient’s full name and date of birth
138. Which part of the prescription indicates the instructions to the patient (how to take the medication)?
Correct Answer: D. Signa (Sig)
139. A medical assistant is assigned to order supplies. Which approach helps control costs?
Correct Answer: B. Tracking usage patterns and avoiding overstocking
140. A patient with depression scores high on a standardized screening tool. What should the medical assistant do with this information?
Correct Answer: C. Document and promptly inform the provider
141. A patient with limited literacy is given a complex form to complete. What should the medical assistant do?
Correct Answer: A. Read the form aloud and assist as needed, maintaining privacy
142. A mother calls stating her 2-year-old has a temperature of 103°F and is lethargic. What should the medical assistant do?
Correct Answer: C. Notify the provider; the child may need urgent evaluation
143. A patient receiving a nebulizer treatment complains of feeling dizzy and shaky. What should the medical assistant do FIRST?
Correct Answer: A. Stop the treatment and notify the provider
144. A medical assistant notices a coworker accessing the EHR of a celebrity patient out of curiosity. What is the MOST appropriate response?
Correct Answer: C. Report the incident according to office compliance policies
145. Which of the following terms describes difficulty breathing when lying flat?
Correct Answer: C. Orthopnea
146. A patient is scheduled for a minor in-office procedure and asks about eating beforehand. The provider’s order says “NPO after midnight.” This means:
Correct Answer: B. Nothing by mouth after midnight
147. Which of the following is a sign of a localized infection at an injection site?
Correct Answer: A. Redness, warmth, and swelling
148. For a patient with suspected anemia, which lab value is MOST relevant?
Correct Answer: B. Hemoglobin and hematocrit
149. A patient’s chart contains the abbreviation “PRN.” What does this mean on a medication order?
Correct Answer: B. As needed
150. A medical assistant receives a subpoena for medical records. What should they do?
Correct Answer: C. Follow office/legal procedures to provide the requested records
151. A provider instructs the MA to apply a topical medication using the transdermal route. Which is an example?
Correct Answer: B. Patch applied to skin
152. A patient is referred to a cardiologist. The MA is asked to send a referral packet. What should be included?
Correct Answer: B. Relevant lab results, imaging, latest notes, and referral form
153. A patient with a known latex allergy is scheduled for a procedure. What should the MA do?
Correct Answer: B. Use non-latex gloves and ensure a latex-free environment
154. Which vaccine is commonly recommended annually for most adults?
Correct Answer: B. Influenza
155. A patient is instructed to perform a 24-hour urine collection. Which instruction is CORRECT?
Correct Answer: B. Discard the first void, note the time, and collect all urine for the next 24 hours including the last void at 24 hours
156. A patient says, “I feel like my life is not worth living.” What is the MOST appropriate immediate response?
Correct Answer: C. Stay calm, express concern, and notify the provider immediately
157. A 5-year-old child is in for a well visit. The MA needs to measure height. Which method is CORRECT?
Correct Answer: B. Standing stadiometer, shoes removed, heels against the wall
158. A patient receiving a B12 injection asks why it is given intramuscularly rather than orally. Which response is BEST?
Correct Answer: B. “Your body may not absorb enough through the stomach.”
159. A patient presents with polyuria, polydipsia, and unexplained weight loss. Which condition is MOST likely?
Correct Answer: B. Diabetes mellitus
160. When should a sharps container be replaced?
Correct Answer: B. When it is about three-quarters full
161. A patient with newly diagnosed hypertension is given written instructions. What can the MA do to enhance understanding?
Correct Answer: B. Read instructions aloud, highlight key points, and use teach-back
162. A 70-year-old patient is at risk for falls. Which environmental modification in the exam room can help reduce risk?
Correct Answer: C. Adequate lighting and clear pathways
163. A patient’s respiratory rate is 30 breaths per minute at rest. This is best described as:
Correct Answer: C. Tachypnea
164. Which of the following is considered a legal, reportable incident that may require documentation in an incident report?
Correct Answer: B. Patient falling in the waiting room
165. A patient’s chart indicates “allergic to sulfa drugs.” Which medication should be used with caution or avoided?
Correct Answer: B. Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim
166. A patient on anticoagulant therapy arrives with extensive bruising. What should the MA do?
Correct Answer: B. Document the findings and notify the provider promptly
167. Which teaching point is MOST important for a patient prescribed nitroglycerin sublingual tablets?
Correct Answer: B. Store tablets in the original dark glass bottle, tightly closed
168. A patient refuses to sign the acknowledgment of the Notice of Privacy Practices. What should the MA do?
Correct Answer: B. Document the refusal in the record
169. Which of the following is an example of subjective data?
Correct Answer: B. “I feel dizzy and nauseated.”
170. A MA is preparing to give an intradermal injection for an allergy test. Which sign indicates it was given correctly?
Correct Answer: B. Formation of a small wheal or bleb
171. A patient calls the office stating they have run out of a chronic medication because they forgot to request a refill. What is the BEST response?
Correct Answer: C. Follow office protocol: take a refill request and notify the provider
172. A 60-year-old patient is being educated on colon cancer screening. Which test is commonly recommended starting around age 45–50, depending on guidelines?
Correct Answer: C. Colonoscopy
173. A patient has a body temperature of 101.8°F. This is best described as:
Correct Answer: B. Febrile
174. A patient with an arm cast reports cool fingers and numbness. What should the MA do?
Correct Answer: C. Notify the provider immediately; may indicate impaired circulation
175. When should hand sanitizer NOT be used as a substitute for soap and water?
Correct Answer: A. When hands are visibly soiled
176. A patient experiences sudden difficulty speaking and weakness on one side of the body. What might this indicate?
Correct Answer: B. Possible stroke (CVA)
177. A patient is scheduled for a fasting blood glucose and asks if they can chew sugar-free gum. What is the BEST answer?
Correct Answer: B. “Chewing gum may stimulate digestive activity; follow provider/lab instructions, usually water only.”
178. The MA is cleaning up a small blood spill on the floor. Which disinfectant is appropriate?
Correct Answer: B. 1:10 bleach solution (or approved EPA disinfectant per policy)
179. A patient has just received a new prescription for an inhaled corticosteroid. What important side effect prevention teaching should the MA provide?
Correct Answer: B. “Rinse your mouth after use to reduce risk of oral thrush.”
180. A patient refuses a recommended procedure after the provider explains risks and benefits. What should the MA ensure is done?
Correct Answer: B. Document the refusal and that the risks/benefits were discussed
181. Which pulse site is MOST commonly used for measuring heart rate in an adult during a routine exam?
Correct Answer: B. Radial
182. A patient’s chart is left open on a computer screen in an empty exam room. What should the MA do?
Correct Answer: C. Log out or lock the screen to protect patient privacy
183. Which of the following is a normal finding for a capillary refill test?
Correct Answer: B. Color returns in less than 2 seconds
184. A patient with a history of asthma is requesting a refill of albuterol inhaler. They also report using it multiple times daily. What should the MA do?
Correct Answer: B. Document and notify the provider; frequent use may indicate poor control
185. A medical assistant notices that the crash cart’s defibrillator has not been checked this month. What is the MOST appropriate action?
Correct Answer: B. Perform the check according to protocol and document it
186. A patient brings a completed advance directive (living will) to the office. What should the MA do?
Correct Answer: B. File a copy in the medical record according to policy and inform the provider
187. A patient is scheduled for a Holter monitor. Which statement is CORRECT patient education?
Correct Answer: A. “You should remove electrodes for showers unless told otherwise, but keep detailed diary.”
188. A patient’s lab order includes “HbA1c.” What does this test evaluate?
Correct Answer: B. Average blood glucose over past 2–3 months
189. A patient says they did not hear or understand instructions due to hearing impairment. What can the MA do?
Correct Answer: B. Face the patient, speak clearly, and consider written instructions or assistive devices
190. A provider orders “enteric-coated” aspirin. How should the MA advise the patient to take it?
Correct Answer: C. Swallow whole; do not crush or chew
191. A patient’s insurance has a high co-insurance percentage. This means:
Correct Answer: B. The patient pays a percentage of covered services after deductible
192. A 25-year-old patient presents for an employment physical requiring a drug screen. What is MOST important regarding the urine specimen?
Correct Answer: B. Chain of custody and proper identification procedures
193. A patient asks why their weight is checked at every visit. Which is the BEST explanation?
Correct Answer: B. “Weight can affect medication dosing and may reflect changes in health status.”
194. A patient with a sore throat and fever is suspected of having strep throat. Which test is most commonly performed in the office?
Correct Answer: A. Rapid antigen detection test (rapid strep)
195. The MA is preparing to educate a patient recently diagnosed with hypertension. What lifestyle modification is commonly recommended?
Correct Answer: C. Follow a low-sodium diet and regular physical activity as tolerated
196. A teenage patient expresses concern about acne. What is an appropriate supportive response?
Correct Answer: B. “Many teens experience acne; we can discuss treatments the provider may recommend.”
197. A patient’s chart has red ink indicating a severe allergy to iodine-based contrast. What should the MA do when scheduling imaging that usually uses contrast?
Correct Answer: B. Clearly communicate the allergy to the imaging center and note in the order
198. The MA is performing daily refrigerator temperature checks for vaccine storage. The temperature is outside the recommended range. What should they do?
Correct Answer: B. Document the reading, notify the supervisor/provider, and follow vaccine storage protocols
199. A patient with chronic pain requests an early refill of a controlled substance, stating they lost their medication. What should the MA do?
Correct Answer: C. Document the request and notify the provider; follow office controlled-substance policy
200. A patient calls to cancel an appointment because they feel much better. What is the MOST appropriate MA action?
Correct Answer: B. Document the cancellation and the reason in the schedule system
Download This Practice Test
Take this test offline or print it out for better practice.
Download PDF (200 Questions)
I am a Registered Pharmacist under the Pharmacy Act, 1948, and the founder of PharmacyFreak.com. I hold a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from Rungta College of Pharmaceutical Science and Research. With a strong academic foundation and practical knowledge, I am committed to providing accurate, easy-to-understand content to support pharmacy students and professionals. My aim is to make complex pharmaceutical concepts accessible and useful for real-world application.
Mail- Sachin@pharmacyfreak.com