MEDA 100 - MA: Basic Clinical Skills

4.0 Credits
Introduction to the role and scope of practice of the Medical Assistant. Builds skills used in the examination and treatment of patients in the medical office including communication, patient history and documentation, room prep, and assisting with patient examinations.
Prerequisite Completion of or concurrent enrollment in AHE 110, AHE 115, HCA 104.
Course-level Learning Objectives (CLOs)
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Explain the role of the Medical Assistant in assisting practitioners with selected procedures and exams and describe the process for obtaining a medical history and performing basic patient assessments for both adult and pediatric populations.
Discuss interpersonal communications and demonstrate the process of language, listening skills, and nonverbal communication.
Identify professional behaviors of an MA such as exercising empathy, understanding personal boundaries and critical thinking skills related to patient care.
Explain the key concepts of patients’ rights and the laws that govern patient confidentiality.
Describe infection control including the chain of infection, explain how infection spreads and list the methods available to break the chain of infection to stop or slow the spread.
Analyze and explain the principles of infection control, including the chain of infection and bloodborne pathogens, while demonstrating knowledge of prevention methods, exposure control, and post-exposure procedures in healthcare settings.

Course Typically Offered
Fall