Comprehensive NHA CCMA Study
Guide, Nha certification study guide
for CCMA.
Latest Updated 2026/2027
Chief Complaint Definition -ans The reason why the patient came to see the physician.
Chief Complaint Abbreviation -ans CC
History of Present Illness Abbreviation -ans HPI
History of Present Illness Definition -ans This is an explanation of the CC to determine the
onset of the illness; associated symptoms; what the patient has done to treat the condition,
etc.
Past, Family and Social History Abbreviation -ans PFSH
Past Medical History Definition -ans Includes all health problems, major illnesses, surgeries
the patient has had, current medications complete with reasons for taking them, and allergies.
Family History Definition -ans Summary of health problems of siblings, parents, and other
blood relatives that could alert the physician to hereditary and/or familial disease.
Social History Definition -ans Includes marital status, occupation, educational attainment,
hobbies, use of alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and lifestyles.
Review of Systems Abbreviation -ans ROS
Review of Systems Definition -ans This is an orderly and systematic check of each organ and
system of the body by questions. Both positive and pertinent negative findings are
documented.
3 Body Processes Necessary for life are: -ans Body Temperature, Respiration, Heart Function
4 Vital Signs of Body Function are: -ans Temperature, Pulse, Respiration, Blood Pressure
Define Body Temperature -ans Is a balance between heart production and heart loss in
conjunction with each other, maintained and regulated by the hypothalamus.
Thermometers -ans Are used to measure temperature using the Fahrenheit and Centigrade or
Celsius scale.
Temperature Sites -ans Mouth, Rectum, Ear (Tympanic Membrane), and the axilla
(underarm).
Normal Temperature Range for Rectal -ans 98.6F to 100.6F
37.0C to 38.1C
Normal Temperature Range for Oral -ans 97.6F to 99.6F
36.5C to 37.5C
Normal Temperature Range for Axillary -ans 96.6F to 98.6F
35.9C to 37.0C
Normal Temperature Range for Tympanic Membrane -ans 98.6 F
37 C
Define Febrile -ans Presence of Fever
Define Afebrile -ans Absence of Fever
Define Fever -ans Elevated body temperature beyond normal range.
Intermittent Fever -ans Fluctuating fever that returns to or below baseline then rises again.
Remittent Fever -ans Fluctuating fever that remains elevated; it does not return to baseline
temperature.
Continuous Fever -ans A fever that remains constant above the baseline; it does not fluctuate.
Oral Temperature -ans Is the most common method of measurement.
,Comprehensive NHA CCMA Study
Guide, Nha certification study guide
for CCMA.
Latest Updated 2026/2027
Oral Temperature is not taken from what patients: -ans -infants and children less than six
years old
-patients who has had surgery or facial, neck, nose, or mouth injury
-those receiving oxygen
-those with nasogastric tubes
-patients with convulsive seizure
-hemiplegic patients
-patients with altered mental status
How long after a patient eats, smokes or drinks do you wait to take an oral temperature? -ans
30 minutes
When taking an oral temperature how long do you leave the thermometer in the patient's
mouth? -ans 3-5 minutes
Rectal Temperature -ans Is taken when oral temperature is not feasible.
Rectal Temperature is not taken from what patients: -ans -patient's with heart disease
-patients with rectal disease or disorder or has had rectal surgery
-patients with diarrhea
Axillary Temperature -ans Is the least accurate and is taken only when no other temperature
site can be used.
When taking an axillary temperature how long should the thermometer be held in place? -ans
5-10 minutes
Tympanic Temperature -ans Is useful for children and confused patients because of the speed
of operation.
Tympanic Temperature is not taken from what patients: -ans -patients with an ear disorder or
ear drainage
When taking a Tympanic Temperature: -ans A covered probe is gently inserted into the ear
canal and temperature is measured with seconds (1-3 seconds).
What is the normal range for an adult pulse: -ans 60 to 100 beats per minute
The site most commonly used for taking a pulse is: -ans The radial artery (found in the wrist
on the same side as the thumb).
When taking a pulse at the radial artery it is felt with the: -ans First two or three fingers
(never with the thumb) and usually taken for 30 seconds multiplied by two to get the rate per
minute.
(Taking a pulse at the radial artery) If the rate is unusually fast or slow then: -ans Count it for
60 seconds
The _____ _____ is a more accurate measurement of the heart rate and it is taken over the
apex of the heart by auscultation using the stethoscope. -ans Apical Pulse
Taking an apical pulse is used for patients with: -ans Irregular heart rate and for infants and
small children.
Respiratory Characteristics -ans Rate, Rhythm, and Depth
Respiratory Rate -ans Is the number of respirations per minute.
Normal Adult Range of Respiratory Rate -ans 12 to 20 per minute
,Comprehensive NHA CCMA Study
Guide, Nha certification study guide
for CCMA.
Latest Updated 2026/2027
What counts as one respirations: -ans One inspiration (inhale) and One Expiration (exhale).
How is a Respiratory Rate calculated: -ans Count respirations for 30 seconds then multiplied
by two or count for a full minute.
Define Apnea -ans This is a temporary complete absence of breathing which may by result of
a reduction in the stimuli to the respiratory centers of the brain.
Define Tachypnea -ans This is a respiration rate of greater than 40/min. It is transient in the
newborn and maybe caused by the hysteria in the adult.
Define Bradypnea -ans Decrease in numbers of respirations. This occurs during sleep. It may
also be due to certain diseases.
Define Respiratory Rhythm -ans Refers to the pattern of breathing. It can vary with age:
infants have an irregular rhythm while adults have regular.
Define Cheyne-Stokes -ans This is a regular pattern of irregular breathing rate.
Define Orthopnea -ans This is difficulty or inability to breath unless in an upright position.
Define Respiratory Depth -ans Refers to the amount of air that is inspired and expired during
each respiration.
Define Hypoventilation -ans State in which reduced amount of air enters the lungs resulting
in decreased oxygen level and increased carbon dioxide level in blood. It can be due to
breathing that is too shallow, or too slow, or to diminished lung function.
Define Hyperpnea -ans Abnormal increase in the depth and rate of breathing.
Define Hyperventilation -ans State in which there is an increased amount of air entering the
lungs.
Define Blood Pressure -ans This is the measurement of the amount of force exerted by the
blood on the peripheral arterial walls and is expressed in millimeters (mm) of mercury (Hg).
Blood Pressure Abbreviation -ans BP
BP consist of two components: -ans The Highest (systole) and lowest (diastole) amount of
pressure exerted during the cardiac cycle.
Common errors in blood pressure measurements: -ans -Improper Cuff Size
-The arm is not at heart level
-Cuff is not completely deflated before use
-Deflation of the cuff is faster than 2-3mmHG per second
-The cuff is re-inflated during the procedure without allowing the arm to rest for 1-2 minutes
between reading
-Improper cuff placement
-Defective Equipment
Define Anthropometric Measurements -ans Refers to comparative measurements of the body.
What age groups use Length, Height, Weight, Weight-for-Length, and Head Circumference -
Anthropometric Measurements: -ans Are used to assess growth and development in infants,
children, and adolescents.
What age groups use Height, Weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio, and % of
body fat - Anthropometric Measurements: -ans Are the measurements used for adults.
, Comprehensive NHA CCMA Study
Guide, Nha certification study guide
for CCMA.
Latest Updated 2026/2027
The 4 principles of a physical examinations: -ans Inspection, Palpation, Percussion,
Auscultation
Define Inspection -ans Which provided an enormous amount of information. The observer
uses observation to detect significant physical features or objective data.
Inspection focuses on certain aspects of the patient: -ans General Appearance, State of
Nutrition, Body Habitus, Symmetry, Posture and Gait
Define Palpation -ans The examiner uses the sense of touch to determine the characteristics
of an organ system.
Define Percussion -ans This involves tapping or striking the body, usually with the fingers or
a small hammer to determine the position, size and density of the underlying organ or tissue.
Define Auscultation -ans This involves listening to sounds produced by internal organs. It is
usually done to evaluated the heart, lungs, and the abdomen.
The Medical Assistant's Role In the Physical Examination: -ans -Room Preparation
-Patient Preparation
-Assisting the Physician
Horizontal Recumbent Position -ans Is used for most physical examinations. The patient lies
on his/her back with legs extended. Arms may be above the head, alongside the body or
folded on the chest.
Dorsal Recumbent Position -ans Is when the patient is on his/her back with knees flexed and
soles of feet flat on the bed. The MA will need to fold a sheet once across the chest and fold a
second sheet crosswise over the thighs and legs so that genital area is easily exposed.
Fowler's Position -ans Is used to promote drainage or to ease breathing. A sitting or semi-
sitting position where the back of the examination table is elevated to either 45 degrees (45
degrees (Semi-Fowler's) or 90 degrees (High-Fowler's).
Dorsal Lithotomy Position -ans Is used for examination of pelvic organs. This position is
similar to the dorsal recumbent position, except that the patient's legs are well separated and
thighs are acutely flexed. The feet are usually placed in stirrups and a folded sheet or bath
blanket is places crosswise over thighs and legs so that genital area is easily exposed.
The Pone Position -ans Is used to examine the back. The patient lies on his/her abdomen with
head turned to one side for comfort, the arms may be above head or alongside the body.
The Sim's Position -ans Is used for rectal examination. The patient is on his/her left side with
the right knee flexed against the abdomen and the left knee slightly flexed. The left arm is
behind the body; the right arm is placed comfortable.
The Knee-Chest Position -ans Is used for rectal or vaginal examinations and as treatment to
bring uterus into a normal position. The patient is on his/her knees with his/her chest resting
on the bed and elbows resting on the bed or arms above head. The head is turned to one side.
Trendelenburg Position -ans The patient is placed flat on the back, face up, the knees flexed
and legs hanging off the end of the table, with the legs and feet supported by footboard. The
table is positioned with the head 45 degrees lower than the body. This position is used
primarily for surgical procedures of pelvis and abdomen.
OSHA stands for -ans Occupational Safety and Health Adminstration
Guide, Nha certification study guide
for CCMA.
Latest Updated 2026/2027
Chief Complaint Definition -ans The reason why the patient came to see the physician.
Chief Complaint Abbreviation -ans CC
History of Present Illness Abbreviation -ans HPI
History of Present Illness Definition -ans This is an explanation of the CC to determine the
onset of the illness; associated symptoms; what the patient has done to treat the condition,
etc.
Past, Family and Social History Abbreviation -ans PFSH
Past Medical History Definition -ans Includes all health problems, major illnesses, surgeries
the patient has had, current medications complete with reasons for taking them, and allergies.
Family History Definition -ans Summary of health problems of siblings, parents, and other
blood relatives that could alert the physician to hereditary and/or familial disease.
Social History Definition -ans Includes marital status, occupation, educational attainment,
hobbies, use of alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and lifestyles.
Review of Systems Abbreviation -ans ROS
Review of Systems Definition -ans This is an orderly and systematic check of each organ and
system of the body by questions. Both positive and pertinent negative findings are
documented.
3 Body Processes Necessary for life are: -ans Body Temperature, Respiration, Heart Function
4 Vital Signs of Body Function are: -ans Temperature, Pulse, Respiration, Blood Pressure
Define Body Temperature -ans Is a balance between heart production and heart loss in
conjunction with each other, maintained and regulated by the hypothalamus.
Thermometers -ans Are used to measure temperature using the Fahrenheit and Centigrade or
Celsius scale.
Temperature Sites -ans Mouth, Rectum, Ear (Tympanic Membrane), and the axilla
(underarm).
Normal Temperature Range for Rectal -ans 98.6F to 100.6F
37.0C to 38.1C
Normal Temperature Range for Oral -ans 97.6F to 99.6F
36.5C to 37.5C
Normal Temperature Range for Axillary -ans 96.6F to 98.6F
35.9C to 37.0C
Normal Temperature Range for Tympanic Membrane -ans 98.6 F
37 C
Define Febrile -ans Presence of Fever
Define Afebrile -ans Absence of Fever
Define Fever -ans Elevated body temperature beyond normal range.
Intermittent Fever -ans Fluctuating fever that returns to or below baseline then rises again.
Remittent Fever -ans Fluctuating fever that remains elevated; it does not return to baseline
temperature.
Continuous Fever -ans A fever that remains constant above the baseline; it does not fluctuate.
Oral Temperature -ans Is the most common method of measurement.
,Comprehensive NHA CCMA Study
Guide, Nha certification study guide
for CCMA.
Latest Updated 2026/2027
Oral Temperature is not taken from what patients: -ans -infants and children less than six
years old
-patients who has had surgery or facial, neck, nose, or mouth injury
-those receiving oxygen
-those with nasogastric tubes
-patients with convulsive seizure
-hemiplegic patients
-patients with altered mental status
How long after a patient eats, smokes or drinks do you wait to take an oral temperature? -ans
30 minutes
When taking an oral temperature how long do you leave the thermometer in the patient's
mouth? -ans 3-5 minutes
Rectal Temperature -ans Is taken when oral temperature is not feasible.
Rectal Temperature is not taken from what patients: -ans -patient's with heart disease
-patients with rectal disease or disorder or has had rectal surgery
-patients with diarrhea
Axillary Temperature -ans Is the least accurate and is taken only when no other temperature
site can be used.
When taking an axillary temperature how long should the thermometer be held in place? -ans
5-10 minutes
Tympanic Temperature -ans Is useful for children and confused patients because of the speed
of operation.
Tympanic Temperature is not taken from what patients: -ans -patients with an ear disorder or
ear drainage
When taking a Tympanic Temperature: -ans A covered probe is gently inserted into the ear
canal and temperature is measured with seconds (1-3 seconds).
What is the normal range for an adult pulse: -ans 60 to 100 beats per minute
The site most commonly used for taking a pulse is: -ans The radial artery (found in the wrist
on the same side as the thumb).
When taking a pulse at the radial artery it is felt with the: -ans First two or three fingers
(never with the thumb) and usually taken for 30 seconds multiplied by two to get the rate per
minute.
(Taking a pulse at the radial artery) If the rate is unusually fast or slow then: -ans Count it for
60 seconds
The _____ _____ is a more accurate measurement of the heart rate and it is taken over the
apex of the heart by auscultation using the stethoscope. -ans Apical Pulse
Taking an apical pulse is used for patients with: -ans Irregular heart rate and for infants and
small children.
Respiratory Characteristics -ans Rate, Rhythm, and Depth
Respiratory Rate -ans Is the number of respirations per minute.
Normal Adult Range of Respiratory Rate -ans 12 to 20 per minute
,Comprehensive NHA CCMA Study
Guide, Nha certification study guide
for CCMA.
Latest Updated 2026/2027
What counts as one respirations: -ans One inspiration (inhale) and One Expiration (exhale).
How is a Respiratory Rate calculated: -ans Count respirations for 30 seconds then multiplied
by two or count for a full minute.
Define Apnea -ans This is a temporary complete absence of breathing which may by result of
a reduction in the stimuli to the respiratory centers of the brain.
Define Tachypnea -ans This is a respiration rate of greater than 40/min. It is transient in the
newborn and maybe caused by the hysteria in the adult.
Define Bradypnea -ans Decrease in numbers of respirations. This occurs during sleep. It may
also be due to certain diseases.
Define Respiratory Rhythm -ans Refers to the pattern of breathing. It can vary with age:
infants have an irregular rhythm while adults have regular.
Define Cheyne-Stokes -ans This is a regular pattern of irregular breathing rate.
Define Orthopnea -ans This is difficulty or inability to breath unless in an upright position.
Define Respiratory Depth -ans Refers to the amount of air that is inspired and expired during
each respiration.
Define Hypoventilation -ans State in which reduced amount of air enters the lungs resulting
in decreased oxygen level and increased carbon dioxide level in blood. It can be due to
breathing that is too shallow, or too slow, or to diminished lung function.
Define Hyperpnea -ans Abnormal increase in the depth and rate of breathing.
Define Hyperventilation -ans State in which there is an increased amount of air entering the
lungs.
Define Blood Pressure -ans This is the measurement of the amount of force exerted by the
blood on the peripheral arterial walls and is expressed in millimeters (mm) of mercury (Hg).
Blood Pressure Abbreviation -ans BP
BP consist of two components: -ans The Highest (systole) and lowest (diastole) amount of
pressure exerted during the cardiac cycle.
Common errors in blood pressure measurements: -ans -Improper Cuff Size
-The arm is not at heart level
-Cuff is not completely deflated before use
-Deflation of the cuff is faster than 2-3mmHG per second
-The cuff is re-inflated during the procedure without allowing the arm to rest for 1-2 minutes
between reading
-Improper cuff placement
-Defective Equipment
Define Anthropometric Measurements -ans Refers to comparative measurements of the body.
What age groups use Length, Height, Weight, Weight-for-Length, and Head Circumference -
Anthropometric Measurements: -ans Are used to assess growth and development in infants,
children, and adolescents.
What age groups use Height, Weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio, and % of
body fat - Anthropometric Measurements: -ans Are the measurements used for adults.
, Comprehensive NHA CCMA Study
Guide, Nha certification study guide
for CCMA.
Latest Updated 2026/2027
The 4 principles of a physical examinations: -ans Inspection, Palpation, Percussion,
Auscultation
Define Inspection -ans Which provided an enormous amount of information. The observer
uses observation to detect significant physical features or objective data.
Inspection focuses on certain aspects of the patient: -ans General Appearance, State of
Nutrition, Body Habitus, Symmetry, Posture and Gait
Define Palpation -ans The examiner uses the sense of touch to determine the characteristics
of an organ system.
Define Percussion -ans This involves tapping or striking the body, usually with the fingers or
a small hammer to determine the position, size and density of the underlying organ or tissue.
Define Auscultation -ans This involves listening to sounds produced by internal organs. It is
usually done to evaluated the heart, lungs, and the abdomen.
The Medical Assistant's Role In the Physical Examination: -ans -Room Preparation
-Patient Preparation
-Assisting the Physician
Horizontal Recumbent Position -ans Is used for most physical examinations. The patient lies
on his/her back with legs extended. Arms may be above the head, alongside the body or
folded on the chest.
Dorsal Recumbent Position -ans Is when the patient is on his/her back with knees flexed and
soles of feet flat on the bed. The MA will need to fold a sheet once across the chest and fold a
second sheet crosswise over the thighs and legs so that genital area is easily exposed.
Fowler's Position -ans Is used to promote drainage or to ease breathing. A sitting or semi-
sitting position where the back of the examination table is elevated to either 45 degrees (45
degrees (Semi-Fowler's) or 90 degrees (High-Fowler's).
Dorsal Lithotomy Position -ans Is used for examination of pelvic organs. This position is
similar to the dorsal recumbent position, except that the patient's legs are well separated and
thighs are acutely flexed. The feet are usually placed in stirrups and a folded sheet or bath
blanket is places crosswise over thighs and legs so that genital area is easily exposed.
The Pone Position -ans Is used to examine the back. The patient lies on his/her abdomen with
head turned to one side for comfort, the arms may be above head or alongside the body.
The Sim's Position -ans Is used for rectal examination. The patient is on his/her left side with
the right knee flexed against the abdomen and the left knee slightly flexed. The left arm is
behind the body; the right arm is placed comfortable.
The Knee-Chest Position -ans Is used for rectal or vaginal examinations and as treatment to
bring uterus into a normal position. The patient is on his/her knees with his/her chest resting
on the bed and elbows resting on the bed or arms above head. The head is turned to one side.
Trendelenburg Position -ans The patient is placed flat on the back, face up, the knees flexed
and legs hanging off the end of the table, with the legs and feet supported by footboard. The
table is positioned with the head 45 degrees lower than the body. This position is used
primarily for surgical procedures of pelvis and abdomen.
OSHA stands for -ans Occupational Safety and Health Adminstration
