NAHP NRCMA Exam
Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant (Page 5 )

Updated On: 7-Feb-2026

When performing a routine phlebotomy, the most common gauge needle is

  1. 25or26
  2. 18
  3. 22
  4. D: 20 or 21

Answer(s): D

Explanation:

In routine phlebotomy, the most commonly used needle gauge is 20 or 21. This size is suitable for venipuncture as it allows for efficient blood flow without causing excessive trauma to the vein. Smaller gauges (like 25 or 26) are typically used for intradermal or subcutaneous injections, while larger gauges (like 18) are used for procedures requiring rapid infusion or blood donation.


Reference:

"Phlebotomy Essentials." Wolters Kluwer,
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ovid/phlebotomy-essentials-7985



Incision into the chest wall is referred to as:

  1. thoracotomy
  2. thoracic
  3. thorax
  4. thoracostomy

Answer(s): A

Explanation:

A thoracotomy is a surgical procedure involving an incision into the chest wall to gain access to the thoracic organs, particularly the lungs and heart. This procedure is performed for various diagnostic and therapeutic reasons, including lung biopsy, tumor removal, or treatment of thoracic injuries. The other terms refer to related but different concepts:
Thoracic: Pertaining to the chest.
Thorax: The part of the body between the neck and the abdomen, encasing the chest. Thoracostomy: The creation of an opening into the chest cavity, often for the insertion of a chest tube.


Reference:

"Thoracotomy." Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/thoracotomy/about/pac- 20385034



When applying a cast, the plaster

  1. is applied directly over the skin
  2. is applied over a stockinette
  3. may be applied over an open wound
  4. may be applied before the swelling has gone down

Answer(s): B

Explanation:

When applying a cast, plaster is applied over a stockinette and padding to protect the skin and provide comfort. The stockinette is a soft, stretchable fabric sleeve that prevents direct contact between the plaster and the skin. The padding, often made of cotton or synthetic materials, cushions the area and absorbs any moisture. The other options are incorrect and can lead to complications such as skin irritation or pressure sores.


Reference:

"Cast Care Instructions." American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/recovery/caring-for-casts-and-splints



The suffix which means plastic repair is:

  1. orrhaphy
  2. ocentesis
  3. Coplasty
  4. opexy

Answer(s): C

Explanation:

The suffix -oplasty refers to the surgical repair or reconstruction of a part of the body. This term is commonly used in procedures such as rhinoplasty (surgical repair of the nose) and angioplasty (surgical repair of blood vessels). The other suffixes have different meanings:

-orrhaphy: Refers to surgical suturing.
-ocentesis: Refers to surgical puncture to remove fluid.
-opexy: Refers to surgical fixation or attachment.


Reference:

"Medical Terminology." Merck Manual, https://www.merckmanuals.com/home



Gram staining is done to determine

  1. whether a bacteria is gram
  2. cervical cancer positive or gram negative
  3. the species of the organism
  4. all of the above present

Answer(s): A

Explanation:

Gram staining is a laboratory technique used to classify bacteria based on the characteristics of their cell walls. This method differentiates bacteria into gram-positive (which retain the crystal violet stain and appear purple) and gram-negative (which do not retain the violet stain and appear red after counterstaining). This classification helps in guiding the appropriate antibiotic treatment and understanding the bacterial structure. It does not determine the species of the organism directly, nor is it used to diagnose cervical cancer.



Viewing page 5 of 42
Viewing questions 21 - 25 out of 201 questions



Post your Comments and Discuss NAHP NRCMA exam prep with other Community members:

Join the NRCMA Discussion