CMA - CMA

Certified Medical Assistant

The Certified Medical Assistant performs and assists with a variety of basic patient care activities under the direction of a physician and supervision of a licensed nurse. Conduct peripheral venipuncture to collect blood samples from patients and prepare specimens for laboratory analysis. Assist with the administration of oral medications and via subcutaneous and intramuscular routes, as directed by the licensed nurse and according to state scope of practice guidelines. Assist nurses with EKGs and other diagnostic tests and clinical procedures in accordance with level of training and health services policies and procedures. Attend sick call with the physician to see patients; prepare a list of patients to be examined; prepare examining room and equipment. Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation and obstructed airway techniques. Dress and bandage wounds; assist with immobilization of bone and joint injuries. Provide oxygen therapy; insert nasal and oral airway as directed by a licensed nurse. Assist with urinary catheterizations. Monitor, record, and report vital signs and patient's condition as needed; contact doctors, supervisors, etc. by phone or radio. Utilize proper body mechanics to assist moving, lifting, carrying, and conveying patients out of housing and/or other areas as necessary. Control and inventory medication, syringes, and other medical supplies or equipment as required by established procedures. Keep equipment and work area clean; utilize appropriate sanitation methods. Document and report activities in accordance with established policies and/or procedures including medical file documentation. Maintain security and confidentiality of all medical records. Observe and record behavior. Securely store medical unit supplies and equipment or ensure their safe disposal. Prepare and maintain a variety of standard narrative, statistical summary and/or operational records, reports, and logs, using appropriate grammar. Communicate effectively and coherently to administration, staff, patients, visitors, and the general public, particularly in situations requiring tact, diplomacy, understanding, fairness, firmness, and good judgment. Coordinate the movement of patients to and from different areas for medical treatment. Engage in functions in confined areas that include working rotating shifts and physically checking the doors and other areas to verify they are secure. Endure verbal and mental challenges when confronted with difficult situations. Provide medical care which may result in possible exposure to body fluids and potential encounters with infectious persons. Comply with applicable regulations, laws, rules, procedures, policies, and standards. Establish and maintain effective working relations with others and handle interpersonal contacts. Define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Interpret a variety of medical and technical instructions from diverse documents. Remain alert at all times and react quickly and calmly in emergencies and high-stress situations.