Foundational Knowledge and
Basic Science| 2026 Update | 100%
Correct
Graded A+
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
What is the primary role of a medical assistant (MA) in an outpatient or ambulatory health
care setting?. ANSWER - To work alongside a provider in an office or clinic to perform
both administrative and clinical duties.
List three examples of administrative duties performed by a Medical Assistant.. ANSWER
- Scheduling appointments, patient registration/demographics, and sending claims to
insurance.
List three examples of clinical duties performed by a Medical Assistant.. ANSWER -
Collecting and processing lab specimens, measuring vital signs, and administering
medications and immunizations.
What defines a medical professional's scope of practice?. ANSWER - The specific set of
standards that a medical professional may perform within the limits of their medical license,
registration, and/or certification.
The duties a medical assistant is allowed to perform are delegated based on their education,
training, and _____.. ANSWER - experience
While state regulations vary, what is one task that Medical Assistants are not authorized to
do?. ANSWER - Prescribe medications.
, What is the role of a Physician Assistant (PA)?. ANSWER - To practice medicine under
the direction and supervision of a licensed MD or DO, and they can make clinical decisions.
What is the primary difference between a Doctor of Medicine (MD) and a Doctor of
Osteopathic Medicine (DO)?. ANSWER - DOs use osteopathic manipulative therapy
(OMT) to treat patients, taking a more holistic approach, while MDs focus on diagnosis and
treatment of medical conditions.
What is the role of a Nurse Practitioner (NP)?. ANSWER - To provide basic patient care
services, including diagnosing and prescribing medications for common illnesses, often
independently in some states.
What is the key difference between a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and a Registered
Nurse (RN)?. ANSWER - RNs have a much broader scope of practice than LPNs due to
more intensive training, allowing them to work in more diverse settings with greater
responsibilities.
What is the primary function of a Medical laboratory technician?. ANSWER - To perform
diagnostic testing on blood, bodily fluids, and other specimens under the supervision of a
medical technologist.
What is the role of an Occupational therapist?. ANSWER - To assist patients who have
conditions that disable them developmentally, emotionally, mentally, or physically.
_____ is regulated by state statutes through the medical practice acts and is mandatory for
physicians to practice medicine.. ANSWER - Licensure
How does certification differ from licensure for healthcare professionals?. ANSWER -
Certification is generally optional, not required by a state, and is earned by passing an exam
from a professional organization.