NAHP Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant NRCMA Exam Practice Test

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Total 201 questions
Question 1

A papanlcolaou smear is used to:



Answer : B

A Papanicolaou smear, commonly known as a Pap smear, is a test used to detect cervical cancer. It involves collecting cells from the cervix to look for precancerous or cancerous changes. This test can also detect other cervical abnormalities, such as infections or inflammation, but its primary purpose is early detection of cervical cancer.

Detect abnormal menses: Not related to Pap smears.

Determine fertility: Not related to Pap smears.

Determine pregnancy: Not related to Pap smears.


'Pap Smear.' Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/pap-smear/about/pac-20394841

Question 2

Relapse refers to a:



Answer : C

Relapse refers to the return of symptoms or worsening of a condition after a period of improvement. It does not refer to systolic pressure. A relapse indicates that a disease or condition that was previously under control has become active again, which can happen in chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis, cancer, or addiction.


Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine

Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary

Question 3

United States health care system relies heavily on:



Answer : C

The United States health care system relies heavily on Private Health Insurance. The majority of Americans obtain health insurance through private insurers, often provided as part of employment benefits. This system contrasts with other countries that may rely more on public health insurance or national health services. Private health insurance covers a wide range of medical services and is a critical component of the U.S. healthcare infrastructure.


Question 4

What kind of insurance provides medical care for job related accident or illness?



Answer : C

Workers' compensation insurance provides medical care and financial benefits for employees who suffer job-related accidents or illnesses. This type of insurance is designed to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages resulting from work-related injuries or conditions, ensuring that employees receive the necessary care and support during their recovery.


Workers' Compensation Law by Lex K. Larson

National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) Guidelines

Question 5

When autoclaving instruments, the timing period begins:



Answer : D

Autoclaving is a sterilization process that uses high-pressure saturated steam, and proper timing ensures the complete elimination of all microorganisms on the instruments.


Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (n.d.). Guidelines for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities.

Rutala, W. A., & Weber, D. J. (2019). Disinfection, Sterilization, and Antisepsis: Principles, Practices, Current Issues, New Research, and New Technologies. Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC).

Question 6

Occult means



Answer : D

The term occult means hidden. In medical contexts, this term is often used to describe conditions or symptoms that are not immediately apparent or visible. For example, occult blood in the stool refers to blood that is not visible to the naked eye but can be detected through chemical tests.


Mosby's Medical Dictionary (10th ed.). (2017). Elsevier.

Dorland's Illustrated Medical Dictionary (32nd ed.). (2011). Elsevier.

Question 7

If a carotid pulse is taken, it is taken at the:



Answer : A

A carotid pulse is taken at the neck. The carotid arteries are located on either side of the neck and supply blood to the brain. To check the carotid pulse, one gently places their fingers on the side of the neck, next to the windpipe.


American Heart Association. (n.d.). How to Check Your Pulse.

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Carotid Artery Disease.

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Total 201 questions