Kinn's The Medical Assistant

An Applied Learning Approach

15th Edition - November 20, 2022
Authors: Brigitte Niedzwiecki, Julie Pepper
Language: English
Paperback ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 3 2 3 - 8 7 1 1 6 - 7
eBook ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 3 2 3 - 8 8 3 0 1 - 6

More than any other product on the market, the most successful Medical Assistants begin their careers with Kinn. Known for more than 65 years for its alignment with national cu… Read more

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More than any other product on the market, the most successful Medical Assistants begin their careers with Kinn. Known for more than 65 years for its alignment with national curriculum standards, Kinn's The Medical Assistant: An Applied Learning Approach, 15th Edition teaches the real-world administrative and clinical skills essential for a career in the modern medical office — always with a focus on helping you apply what you’ve learned. This edition features a new unit on advanced clinical skills and expanded content on telemedicine, infection control related to COVID-19, IV therapy, radiology, rehabilitation, insurance, coding, privacy, data security, and much more. With its approachable writing style appropriate for all levels of learners and a full continuum of separately sold adaptive solutions, real-world simulations, EHR documentation experience, and HESI remediation and assessment, quickly master the leading skills to prepare for certification and a successful career in the dynamic and growing Medical Assisting profession!

Instructions for online access
Cover image
Title page
Table of Contents
Copyright
Preface
Reviewers
Unit One. Introduction to Medical Assisting
1. The Professional Medical Assistant and the Healthcare Team
Scenario
Responsibilities of the Medical Assistant
Characteristics of Professional Medical Assistants
Scope of Practice and Standards of Care for Medical Assistants
Professional Medical Assisting Organizations, Credentials, and Continuing Education
How to Succeed as a Medical Assistant Student
The History of Medicine
Medical Professionals
Doctors of Chiropractic
Allied Health Professionals
Types of Healthcare Facilities
The Healthcare Team
Practicing Professionalism as a Team Member
Closing Comments
2. Therapeutic Communication
Scenario
Introduction
First Impressions and High-Quality Patient Care
Respecting Diverse Populations
Nonverbal Communication
Verbal Communication
Therapeutic Communication
Barriers to Effective Communication
Communicating in the Workplace
Personal and Professional Boundaries with Communication
Understanding Behavior
Closing Comments
3. Legal Principles
Scenario
Introduction
Sources of Law
Criminal and Civil Law
Tort Law
Defenses to Liability
Resolving a Civil Lawsuit
Professional Liability Insurance
Contracts
Provider-Patient Relationship
Consents
Patient’s Rights and Responsibilities
Practice Requirements
Accreditation
Closing Comments
4. Healthcare Laws
Scenario
Introduction
Privacy and Confidentiality
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
Privacy Rule
Security Rule
Other Privacy Laws
Drug Laws
Workplace Safety Laws
Additional Healthcare Laws and Regulations
Compliance Reporting
Compliance Programs
Financial Concerns
Employment Concerns
Laws Protecting Patients against Discrimination
Incident Reports and Risk Management
Closing Comments
5. Healthcare Ethics
Scenario
Introduction
Personal Ethics
Professional Ethics
Separation Plan
Principles of Healthcare Ethics
Ethical Issues Related to Genetics
Reproductive ETHICAL Issues
Childhood Ethical Issues
Research Trials and Ethical Issues
End-of-Life Issues
Patient Self-Determination Act
Ethical Issues Related to Dying
Organ Donation and Ethical Issues
Organ Donation Laws
Closing Comments
Unit Two. Fundamentals of Ambulatory Care Administration
6. Technology
Scenario
Introduction
Computers
Input Devices
Output Devices
Internal Computer Components
Secondary Storage Devices and Cloud Storage
Network and Internet Access Devices
Maintaining Computer Hardware
Computer Workstation Ergonomics
Purchasing and Installing Computer Hardware
Software Used in Ambulatory Care
Practice Management Software
Computer Network Privacy and Security
Recognizing and Preventing Phishing Attacks
Continual Technologic Advances in Healthcare
Closing Comments
7. Written Communication
Scenario
Introduction
Parts of Speech
Common Communication Errors
Punctuation
Capitalizations and Numbers
Written Correspondence
Business Letter Formats
Memorandums
Professional Emails
Preparing Mail
Outgoing and Incoming Mail
Closing Comments
8. Telephone Techniques
Scenario
Introduction
Telephone Equipment
Effective Use of the Telephone
Managing Telephone Calls
Typical Incoming Calls
Special Incoming Calls
Handling Difficult Calls
Typical Outgoing Calls
Using Directory Assistance
Telephone Services
Closing Comments
9. Scheduling Appointments and Patient Processing
Scenario
Introduction
Establishing the Appointment Schedule
Creating the Appointment Matrix
Methods of Scheduling Appointments
Legality of the Appointment Scheduling System
Types of Appointment Scheduling
Working with New and Established Patients to Schedule an Appointment
Scheduling Other Types of Appointments
Special Circumstances
Increasing Appointment Show Rates
Handling Cancellations and Delays
Patient Processing Tasks
Closing Comments
10. Health Records
Introduction
Scenario
Electronic Records
Contents of the Health Record
Working with Health Records
Dictation and Transcription
Creating an Efficient Paper HEALTH-RECORDS Management System
Filing Methods
Organization of Files
Closing Comments
11. Daily Operations and Safety
Scenario
Introduction
Opening Tasks for the Medical Assistant
Closing Tasks for the Medical Assistant
Equipment Management
Supply Inventory
Ordering Process
Receiving Orders
Vaccine Storage Requirements
Personal Safety and Body Mechanics
Providing a Safe Environment
Evaluating the Work Environment
Emergency Response Plan
Effects of Stress
Closing Comments
Unit Three. Coding And Medical Billing
12. Health Insurance Essentials
Scenario
Introduction
Health Insurance Basics
Health Insurance Plans
Health Insurance Models
The Medical Assistant’s Role
Other Types of Insurance
Closing Comments
Legal and Ethical Issues
13. Diagnostic Coding Essentials
Scenario
Introduction
Understanding Diagnostic Coding
Getting to Know the ICD-10-CM
Preparing for Diagnostic Coding
Steps in ICD-10-CM Coding
Understanding Coding Guidelines
Maximizing Third-Party Reimbursement
Closing Comments
14. Procedural Coding Essentials
Scenario
Introduction
Introduction to the CPT Manual
Steps for Efficient CPT Procedural Coding
CPT Coding Guidelines: Evaluation and Management Section
CPT Coding Guidelines: Anesthesia
CPT Coding Guidelines: Surgical Section
CPT Coding Guidelines: Radiology and Pathology and Laboratory Sections
CPT Coding Guidelines: Medicine Section
HCPCS Code System
Closing Comments
15. Medical Billing and Reimbursement Essentials
Scenario
Introduction
Medical Billing Process
Submitting Claims to Third-Party Payers
Impact of Accurate Coding
Claim Follow-up
The Patient’s Financial Responsibility
Closing Comments
Unit Four. Advanced Ambulatory Care Administration
16. Patient Accounts and Practice Management
Scenario
Introduction
Accounts Receivable (A/R)
Patient Payment Management
Collection Procedures
Accounts Payable (A/P)
Banking Procedures in the Ambulatory Care Setting
Banking in Today’s Business World
Closing Comments
17. Advanced Roles in Administration
Scenario
Introduction
Medical Office Management
Office Management Responsibilities
Office Management Skills
Finding the Right Employee for the Job
Working with New and Established Employees
Policies and Procedures
Generating and Using Reports
Closing Comments
Unit Five. Fundamentals of Clinical Medical Assisting
18. Introduction to Medical Terminology and Anatomy
Scenario
Introduction
Medical Terminology
Combining Forms
Building, Defining, and Pronouncing Medical Terms
Structural Organization of the Body
Anatomic Position, Planes, Cavities, and Quadrants
Acid-Base Balance in the Body
Pathology Basics
Causes of Disease
Closing Comments
19. Infection Control
Scenario
Introduction
Chain of Infection
How Does the Body Defend Itself?
Types of Infection
Occupational Safety and Health Administration Standards for the Healthcare Setting
Aseptic Techniques: Preventing Disease Transmission
Closing Comments
20. Vital Signs
Scenario
Introduction
Temperature
Pulse
Respiration
Blood Pressure
Oxygen Saturation
Anthropometric Measurements
Closing Comments
21. Physical Examination
Scenario
Introduction
Health History
Understanding and Communicating with Patients
Interviewing the Patient
Patient Assessment and Documentation
Physical Examination
Assisting with the Physical Examination
Closing Comments
22. Patient Coaching
Scenario
Introduction
Making Changes for Health
Domains of Learning
The Medical Assistant’s Role in Coaching
Adapting Coaching for the Developmental Level
Adapting Coaching for Communication Barriers
Cultural Diversity
Teaching-Learning Process
Coaching on Disease Prevention
Coaching on Self-Exams for Health Maintenance and Wellness
Coaching on Screenings for Health Maintenance and Wellness
Coaching on Diagnostic Tests and Treatment Plans
Care Coordination
Closing Comments
23. Nutrition and Health Promotion
Scenario
Introduction
Metabolism
Carbohydrates
Protein
Fat
Other Dietary Nutrients
Food Guides and Dietary Guidelines
Food Labels
Prescribed Diets with Consistency Modifications
Prescribed Diets with Nutrient Modifications
Diets for Allergies and Intolerances
Nutritional Needs for Various Populations
Instructing Patients on Dietary Changes
Closing Comments
24. Surgical Supplies and Instruments
Scenario
Introduction
Preparing for Minor Surgery
Surgical Instruments
Drapes, Sutures, and Other Closure Material
Surgical Asepsis and Preparation of Surgical Instruments
Closing Comments
25. Assisting with Surgical Procedures
Scenario
Introduction
Surgical Procedures
Preparation for Surgical Procedures
Assisting with Surgical Procedures
Wound Care
Closing Comments
26. Principles of Electrocardiography
Scenario
Introduction
Heart Structure
Heart’s Conduction System
ECG Tracing of the Cardiac Cycle
12-Lead ECG
ECG Supplies
Electrocardiograph
ECG Procedure
Troubleshooting Artifact
Evaluating an ECG Tracing
Stress Testing
Remote ECG Monitoring
Closing Comments
27. Medical Emergencies
Scenario
Introduction
Emergencies in Healthcare Settings
Roles and Documentation in Code Situations
Emergency Equipment and Supplies
Temperature-Related Emergencies
Other Environmental Emergencies
Diabetic Emergencies
Musculoskeletal Emergencies
Neurologic Emergencies
Respiratory Emergencies
Cardiovascular Emergencies
Bleeding
Closing Comments
Unit Six. Assisting with Medications
28. Principles of Pharmacology
Scenario
Introduction
Pharmacology Basics
Pharmacokinetics
Drug Action
Drug Legislation and the Ambulatory Care Setting
Compliance with the Controlled Substance Act
Brand and Generic Drugs
Drug Reference Information
Forms of Medications
Types of Medication Orders
Prescriptions
Closing Comments
29. Pharmacology Math
Scenario
Introduction
Drug Labels
Math Basics
Math Basics for Medications
Measurement Systems
Temperature Conversion
Solid Medication Doses
Liquid Medication Doses
Solutions
Pediatric Dose
Reading Syringes
Closing Comments
30. Administering Medications
Scenario
Introduction
Nine Rights of Medication Administration
Administering Vaccines
Routes of Medication
Needles and Syringes
Working with the Needle and Syringe
Preparing Parenteral Medication
Giving Parenteral Medications
Intradermal Tuberculin Testing
Subcutaneous Injections
Intramuscular Injections
Closing Comments
Unit Seven. Assisting with Medical Specialties
31. Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology
Scenario
Introduction
Anatomy and Physiology of the Eye
Anatomy and Physiology of the Ear
Life Span Changes
Eye Diseases and Disorders
Ear Diseases and Disorders
The Medical Assistant’s Role in Examination, Diagnostic Procedures, and Treatments
Instillation of Eye Medication
Closing Comments
32. Dermatology
Scenario
Introduction
Anatomy of the Integumentary System
Physiology of the Integumentary System
Life Span Changes
Diseases and Disorders of the Integumentary System
Carcinomas of the Skin
The Medical Assistant’s Role in Examinations, Diagnostic Procedures, and Treatments
Closing Comments
33. Allergy and Infectious Disease
Scenario
Introduction
Anatomy of the Immune and Lymphatic Systems
Physiology of the Immune and Lymphatic Systems
Life Span Changes
Diseases and Disorders of the Immune System
Diseases and Disorders of the Lymphatic System
The Medical Assistant’s Role in Examination, Diagnostic Procedures, and Treatments
Closing Comments
34. Gastroenterology
Scenario
Introduction
Anatomy of the Gastrointestinal Tract
Anatomy of the Accessory Organs
Physiology of the Gastrointestinal System
Mouth Diseases and Disorders
Esophageal and Stomach Diseases and Disorders
Intestinal Diseases and Disorders
Diseases and Disorders of the Accessory Organs
Additional Diseases and Disorders of the Accessory Organs
Gastrointestinal System Cancers
The Medical Assistant’s Role in Examinations, Diagnostic Procedures, and Treatments
Closing Comments
35. Orthopedics and Rheumatology
Scenario
Introduction
Anatomy of the Skeletal System
Physiology of the Skeletal System
Anatomy of the Muscular System
Physiology of the Muscular System
Life Span Changes
Skeletal System Diseases and Disorders
Arthritic Joint Diseases and Disorders
Nonarthritic Joint Diseases and Disorders
Muscular System Diseases and Disorders
The Medical Assistant’s Role in the Examination, Diagnostic Procedures, and Treatments
Closing Comments
36. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Scenario
Introduction
Assisting with the Examination
Assisting with Diagnostic Procedures
Assisting with Immobilization Treatments
Assisting with Cold and Heat Therapies
Physical Therapy Treatments
Assisting with Assistive Devices
Complementary Therapies
Closing Comments
37. Neurology
Scenario
Introduction
Central Nervous System
Peripheral Nervous System
Cells of the Nervous System
Physiology of the Nervous System
Neurodegenerative Diseases and Disorders
Other Neurodegenerative Diseases and Disorders
Functional Diseases and Disorders of the Nervous System
Infections
Structural Diseases and Disorders
Injuries
Congenital Diseases and Disorders
Vascular Diseases and Disorders
The Medical Assistant’s Role in Examinations, Diagnostic Procedures, and Treatments
Closing Comments
38. Behavioral Health
Scenario
Introduction
Behavioral Health
Behavioral Health Diseases and Disorders
Anxiety Disorders
Depression and Other Mood Disorders
Behavioral Disorders
Eating Disorders
Other Behavioral Health Diseases and Disorders
Substance Use Disorders and Other Addictions
Suicidal Behavior
The Medical Assistant’s Role Regarding Behavioral Health Examinations
The Medical Assistant’s Role Regarding Behavioral Health Diagnostic Procedures
The Medical Assistant’s Role Regarding Behavioral Health Treatments
Closing Comments
39. Endocrinology
Scenario
Introduction
Neuroendocrine System
Anatomy of the Pituitary Gland
Anatomy of the Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands
Anatomy of the Adrenal Glands
Anatomy of Other Endocrine Glands
Physiology of the Endocrine System
Pituitary Gland Disorders and Disorders
Thyroid Gland and Parathyroid Gland Diseases and Disorders
Adrenal Gland Diseases and Disorders
Pancreatic Diseases and Disorders
The Medical Assistant’s Role in Examinations, Diagnostic Procedures, and Treatments
Closing Comments
40. Cardiology
Scenario
Introduction
Anatomy of the Cardiovascular System
Anatomy of the Blood Flow
Anatomy of the Blood
Physiology of the Conduction System
Physiology of the Blood
Life Span Changes of the Cardiovascular System
Heart Diseases and Disorders
Heart Valve Diseases
Blood Vessels Diseases and Disorders
Blood Pressure–Related Diseases and Disorders
Blood Diseases and Disorders
The Medical Assistant’s Role in Examinations, Diagnostic Procedures, and Treatments
Closing Comments
41. Pulmonology
Scenario
Introduction
Anatomy of the Upper Respiratory Tract
Anatomy of the Lower Respiratory Tract
Physiology of the Respiratory System
Life Span Changes
Respiratory Diseases
Chronic Respiratory Diseases
Respiratory System Cancers
Acute Respiratory Diseases
The Medical Assistant’s Role in Examinations, Diagnostic Procedures, and Treatments
Closing Comments
42. Urology and Male Reproduction
Scenario
Introduction
Anatomy of the Urinary System
Physiology of the Urinary System
Life Span Changes of the Urinary System
Urinary System Diseases and Disorders
Anatomy of the Male Reproductive System
Physiology of the Male Reproductive System
Life Span Changes of the Male Reproductive System
Male Reproductive System Disorders
Assisting with an Examination and Diagnostic Procedures
Assisting with Treatments for Urinary and Male Reproductive Disorders
Closing Comments
43. Obstetrics and Gynecology
Scenario
Introduction
Anatomy and Physiology of the Female Reproductive System
Life Span Changes
Diseases and Disorders of the Female Reproductive System
Cancers of the Female Reproductive System
The Medical Assistant’s Role in Examinations, Diagnostic Procedures, and Treatments
Closing Comments
44. Pediatrics
Scenario
Introduction
Normal Growth and Development
Pediatric Diseases and Disorders
The Medical Assistant’s Role in the Pediatric Examination and Diagnostic Procedures
Assisting with the Examination
Assisting with Diagnostic Procedures
Assisting with Treatments
The Adolescent Patient
Closing Comments
45. Geriatrics
Scenario
Introduction
Changes in Anatomy, Physiology, and Diseases of the Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Systems
Changes in Anatomy, Physiology, and Diseases of the Endocrine and Gastrointestinal Systems
Changes in Anatomy, Physiology, and Diseases of the Integumentary and Musculoskeletal Systems
Changes in Anatomy, Physiology, and Diseases of the Nervous System and Sensory Organs
Changes in Anatomy, Physiology, and Diseases of the Urinary and Reproductive Systems
The Medical Assistant’s Role in Caring for the Older Patient
Closing Comments
Unit Eight. Assisting with Clinical Laboratory Procedures
46. Introduction to the Clinical Laboratory
Scenario
Introduction
Organization of the Clinical Laboratory
Government Legislation Affecting Clinical Laboratory Testing
Quality Assurance and Quality Control
Laboratory Safety
Specimen Collection, Processing, and Storage
Laboratory Mathematics and Measurement
Laboratory Equipment
Closing Comments
47. Urinalysis
Scenario
Introduction
Urine Formation and Elimination
Collecting and Handling of a Urine Specimen
Routine Urinalysis
Microscopic Preparation and Examination of Urine Sediment
Additional CLIA-Waived Urine Tests
Closing Comments
48. Blood Collection
Scenario
Introduction
Venipuncture Equipment
Needle Safety
Routine Venipuncture
Problems Associated with Venipuncture
Pediatric Phlebotomy
Capillary Puncture
Handling the Specimen after Collection
Closing Comments
49. Analysis of Blood
Scenario
Introduction
Blood
Hematology in the Physician Office Laboratory
Hematology in the Physician Office Laboratory: Complete Blood Count
Hematology in the Reference Laboratory
Preparing and the Examination of Blood Smears
Immunohematology
Blood Chemistry in the Physician Office Laboratory
Closing Comments
50. Microbiology and Immunology
Scenario
Introduction
Classification of Microorganisms
Characteristics of Bacteria
Pathogens
Specimen Collection and Transport in the Physician Office Laboratory
CLIA-Waived Microbiology Testing
CLIA-Waived Immunologic Testing
Microbiology Reference Laboratory: Identification of Pathogens
Stool-Based Tests
Closing Comments
Unit Nine. Advanced Clinical Skills
51. Intravenous Therapy
Scenario
Introduction
Intravenous Solutions
IV Infusion Sets
Additional Supplies and Equipment for IV Therapy
Pump and Gravity Infusions
Initiating IV Infusions
Monitoring IV Therapy
Complications of IV Therapy
Closing Comments
52. Radiology BASICS
Scenario
Introduction
Limited X-ray Machine Operator
Primary X-Ray Beam and Scatter Radiation
Introduction to Radiographic Equipment
Basic Radiation Safety
Basic Physics for Radiography
X-Ray Production
X-Ray Circuit
Rectification
Generators
X-Ray Control Panel
Principles of Exposure and Image Quality
Digital Imaging
Closing Comments
53. Positioning for Radiology
Scenario
Introduction
Introduction to Radiographic Positioning
Radiographic Procedures
Upper Limb and Shoulder Girdle Images
Lower Limb and Pelvis Images
Spine
Bony Thorax, Chest, and Abdomen
Skull, Facial Bones, and Paranasal Sinuses
Image Evaluation
Closing Comments
Patient-Centered Care
Unit Ten. Job Seeking
54. Skills and Strategies
Scenario
Introduction
Understanding Personality Traits Important to Employers
Assessing Your Strengths and Skills
Identifying Career Objectives and Personal Needs
Finding Job Openings
Developing a Résumé
Developing a Cover Letter
Completing Online Profiles and Job Applications
Career Portfolios
Preparing for the Interview
Types of Interviews
Professionalism during and after the Interview
Improving Your Opportunities
Starting and Keeping Your Job
Closing Comments
Abbreviations
Index

Brigitte Niedzwiecki

Brigitte Niedzwiecki began her healthcare career as a nurse, working in the hospital with surgical and pediatric patients and also in urgent care. After obtaining her master’s degree in nursing, Brigitte worked in patient and staff education, as a software trainer, and as a nurse educator before transitioning into education. She has been the Medical Assisting program director at Chippewa Valley Technical College in Wisconsin for nearly 20 years, during which time she has participated in reviewing and writing and has helped develop state and national Medical Assisting curricula. She is also lead author of Kinn’s Medical Assisting Fundamentals, a related MA core text designed primarily for programs that do not offer a separate A&P course and are focused on certification.

Affiliations and expertise

Medical Assistant Program Director & Instructor, Chippewa Valley Technical College, Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Julie Pepper

Julie Pepper has spent her entire career in health care, first as a medical assistant in a variety of offices and clinics, developing expertise in the electronic health record. She combines her education in dietetics with her clinical and administrative experience as an instructor in the Medical Assisting program at Chippewa Valley Technical College in Wisconsin, where she has taught for the past 18 years. Julie is also the program director for the college’s new Health Navigator program. She has served as reviewer and contributor to numerous Medical Assisting educational products over the last decade, including SimChart for the Medical Office; she currently serves as sole author of The Electronic Health Record for the Physician’s Office and The Simulated Administrative Medical Office and co-author of Health Insurance Today, 7e. She is taking over sole authorship of what will be titled Beik’s Health Insurance Today, 8e

Affiliations and expertise

Medical Assisting Program Instructor, Health Navigator Program Director, Chippewa Valley Technical College, Eau Claire, Wisconsin