Pre-Screening test

I've been selected to take a pre-screening test for one of the hospital/medical office chains in my area. I'm taking the LVN test, but the study guide they sent me is geared towards medical assistants. I don't know the MA scope of practice, only the LVN. Can you help me out with a few things?

One of the possible scenarios given was a 72y/o female with SOB and edema x4days. What vital signs should be taken? I would think BP, pulse, respirations, weight and temp... right?

Only doctors can order tests, thats what I learned in nursing school. There are a couple scenarios where the MA orders an EKG or mammogram or xrays. Can they do that? I'm pretty sure they cant...

Then there is a tricky question asking about factor that can TEMPORARILY reduce BP... fever, pain and exercise. I know that fever and pain will increase it, and that exercise over time decreases it but initially increases it.

Gah! I just want to pass and get a good, stable job!!

I've been a Medical Assistant for 2 years so I don't have that much experience but this is what I would do. Everything you said with the 72 year old female minus weight...but maybe you should take the weight because the dr. might prescribe something based on weight. I've never heard of an MA ordering anything without Dr.'s orders...But I work in peds so its a lot different. Good luck!

I would add an O2 sat to your VS, since the pt. is experiencing SOB.

I would keep the weights in as edema is excess water and can build up quickly. Remember water weight will not always be visible until days or weeks have passed, our bodies will fill up "empty spaces" before showing up in feet, hands or other visible body parts. Thus you would see the weight increase.

I would keep the weights in as edema is excess water and can build up quickly. Remember water weight will not always be visible until days or weeks have passed, our bodies will fill up "empty spaces" before showing up in feet, hands or other visible body parts. Thus you would see the weight increase.

I agree with this however if there are no weights to compare to then the weight you take with VS would be useless for the time being. So, if the pt has CHF for example and they have daily weights then a weight would be VERY handy!