Transcript title

Intro to Clinical Med Assist

Credits

8

Grading mode

Standard letter grades

Total contact hours

120

Lecture hours

60

Lab hours

60

Prerequisites

Instructor approval.

Course Description

Introduces key cognitive, psychomotor and affective competencies related to the clinical responsibilities of the medical assistant as identified by the CAAHEP and the MAERB. Covered concepts include application of standard precautions and infection control, patient preparation and education, performance of vital signs, delivery of oral and parenteral medications, vision screening and application of skills to begin assisting with medical exams and procedures. Math component includes basic skills in preparation for understanding and calculating medication dosage. Body structure, function, pathology, and medical terminology are reviewed in relationship to their impact on various body systems.

Course learning outcomes

1. Demonstrate proficiency in essential medical assisting procedures, including taking vital signs, conducting basic lab tests, screening patients, and ensuring safe clinical practice.
2. Apply medical terminology to communicate clearly and respectfully with patients, families, and healthcare team members, ensuring understanding across all parties.
3. Analyze patient symptoms to identify relevant body systems, and execute accurate patient care activities, such as medication administration, under clinician supervision in simulated clinical settings.
4. Evaluate clinical scenarios to provide ethically sound and culturally sensitive care, adapting communication and actions to meet diverse patient needs in various healthcare contexts.

Content outline

1. Infection Control/Asepsis, Sterilization, Vital Signs, Overview of Nutrition                    
2. Vital Signs, Standard Precautions, Organization of the Human Body,         Bloodborne Pathogens, Anatomical Directional Terms, Digestion and Absorption
3. Bloodborne Pathogens Infection Control, Process of Infection, Immune and Lymph System, Carbohydrates
4. Introduction to the Urinary System, Cardiovascular System, Lipids
5. Introduction to the Respiratory System, Ear and Eye Assessment, Eye and Ear Drops/Ointments in Adult Patients
6. Energy Balance and Body Composition
7. Introduction to the Musculoskeletal System, Patient Intake, Interview Basic Orthopedic Conditions, Weight Management
8. Introduction to the Integumentary and Dermatology       
9. Injections: Subcutaneous and Intradermal  Alternative Routes of Drug Administration and Vaccinations                                    
10. Z-Track IM Injections,  Accidents, Incidents and Adverse events, Reportable Diseases, Nutrition Through the Lifespan: Pregnancy and Lactation

Required materials

Required textbook and software, BP cuff, stethoscope, watch, lab coat uniform, access to the internet and computer.