What is an EKG? A Medical Assisting Guide

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The EKG is one the most common test used to identify cardiovascular conditions. Testing for heart and blood vessel disorders with an electrocardiogram (EKG) is non-invasive. The EKG will show the physician if the patient’s heart is damaged or short of oxygen.

The medical assistant is responsible for obtaining a good-quality EKG without avoidable artifacts. An artifact is an abnormal signal that reflects electrical activity other than the patient’s heart during the cardiac cycle. The medical assistant must make sure that the patient stays still during the EKG exam, there are no mechanical problems with the EKG machine, and there is no other equipment in the room that can interfere with the EKG.

What is an EKG?

The EKG is one of the most valuable diagnostic exams for evaluating the electrical pathways through the heart. An EKG exam measures the electrical activity of the heartbeat. With each beat, an electrical impulse travels through the heart, and the wave causes the muscle to squeeze and pump blood from the heart. The EKG can measure how fast the heart beats and how well the chambers conduct electrical energy.

Why Perform an EKG Exam?

An EKG exam is a quick and painless way for a physician to check the patient’s heart rhythm, identify whether blood is flowing to the heart properly and diagnose a heart attack. The EKG also identifies abnormalities of the heart, the orientation of the heart in the chest, and increased thickness of the heart muscle which would suggest a cardiovascular disorder.

Preparing A Patient for an EKG?

Before performing the EKG, the medical assistant will want to make sure that no other equipment will cause any electric interference or avoidable artifacts.

The medical assistant will explain the procedure to the patient, answering any questions the patient may have. The patient will be asked to remove all items that may interfere with the EKG and lay down on the table on their back. The medical assistant will ask the patient to breathe normally while laying still. The medical assistant will then clean the patient’s skin with rubbing alcohol where the electrodes will be placed and apply the electrodes in the proper positions.

The EKG has 12 leads that produce a two-dimensional record of the impulse waves. Each lead records the electrical impulse through the heart from a different angle, allowing the physician to properly visualize the heart and identify any abnormalities. The EKG cables will then be attached to the electrodes. The medical assistant will enter the patient data into the EKG machine and the EKG tracing will begin. All artifacts are identified and eliminated. After the EKG is complete, the medical assistant will remove the electrodes and allow the patient to get dressed. Finally, the medical assistant will record the procedure on the patient’s chart to be included in the patient’s electronic health record.

How is an EKG Interpreted by the Physician?

Whether weak or strong, fast or slow, each heartbeat produces an electrical current that can be measured with an EKG machine. The physician examines the waveforms associated with the cardiac cycle and will measure the PR Interval, PR Segment, ST Segment and Ventricular Activation Time. To measure these variables, the physician will measure the waves labeled with letters P, Q, R, S, T, and U. The elements that are considered from these measurements include rate, rhythm, axis, hypertrophy, ischemia, infarction.

  • Rate – how fast the heart is beating
  • Rhythm – regularity of cardiac cycles and intervals
  • Axis – position of the heart and direction of electrical movement through the heart.
  • Hypertrophy – size of the heart
  • Ischemia – decrease in blood supply to an area of the heart
  • Infarction – death of heart muscles resulting in loss of function.

When Does a Medical Assistant Learn to Administer an EKG?

Learning how to perform an EKG exam is taught during a medical assisting program at a vocational school. Students will perform EKGs under the supervision of instructors. The student will prepare both the patient and the EKG machine in order to learn how to perform the EKG with the no avoidable artifacts. The student will also learn how to record the EKG in the patient’s chart.

Did learning what an EKG is interest you? Ready to become a medical assistant? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training. The core curriculum focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills. These medical assisting courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.

 

The Immune System: A Medical Assistant’s Guide

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In the course of performing a medical assisting role, the medical assistant will need to become familiar with the immune system. The immune system is the part of the body that identifies and destroys microorganisms that have the potential to cause illness and disease. The body’s immune system produces antibodies to combat antigens, a foreign substance to the body. The medical assistant should be very familiar with the immune system and how it fights microorganisms that attack the body. The medical assistant should also be aware of many different diseases caused by the immune system. This will help the medical assistant identify issues that will help keep patients happy and healthy.

What is an Antigen?

Antigens are substances that are recognized as foreign to the body. When antigens are present they cause the body to produce antibodies.

What are Antibodies?

Antibodies are proteins produced by the body in response to a specific antigen. Each antibody combines with only one antigen.

What are Microorganisms?

A microorganism is the smallest and simplest form of a living being, that can only be seen under a microscope. Microorganisms can live in almost any condition however some have a preference for hot, cold, dry or wet conditions. Common microorganisms include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

Pathogenic Bacteria – one that causes disease in the host.

  • Staphylococcus – one of the most common causes of human disease. Staphylococcus can colonize the skin and mucous membrane and can cause superficial and systemic infections. The most common infections include boils, impetigo, folliculitis, pneumonia, bacteremia and infections of the bone and wounds.
  • Streptococcus – can cause strep throat which can lead to serious conditions like rheumatic fever of the heart valves and glomerulonephritis of the kidneys.
  • The Gram- Negative Bacilli – a normal bacteria found in the intestinal tract however can be serious and life-threatening if the bacteria gets out of the intestine during surgery.

Viruses – a small infectious agent that replicates only inside the living cells of another organism.

  • Bird Flu – a viral infection that spreads from bird to bird. H5N1 and can be deadly if caught by a human.
  • Chickenpox – a highly contagious viral infection causing an itchy, blister-like rash on the skin.
  • Common Cold – a common viral infection of the nose and throat.
  • Ebola Virus – causes severe bleeding, organ failure and can lead to death.
  • Influenza – a common viral infection that causes mild illness, vomiting and diarrhea.

Pathogenic Fungi – fungi that causes disease in humans

  • Candida – an overgrowth of organisms, caused by yeast in individuals with deficient immune system.
  • Aspergillus – infection from a common mold that causes allergic reactions, lung infections and infections of other organs.
  • Cryptococcus – a severe form of meningitis in patients with HIV infection and AIDS.
  • Histoplasma – infection of the lungs by inhaling contaminated air
  • Pneumocystis – can cause a form of pneumonia in humans with a weakened immune system.
  • Stachybotrys – also known as “black mold,”can cause respiratory damage and severe headaches

Parasites – an organism that lives in or on another organism and benefits by deriving nutrients at the host’s expense. Can inflame and destroy the intestinal lining of the gut.

  • Tapeworm – infection of the digestive tract of a species of parasitic flatworm.
  • Hookworm – sucks blood from the intestinal walls of human hosts.
  • Giardia – diarrheal disease caused by microscopic parasites.
  • Blood Flukes – parasitic flatworms that cause infections in humans called Schistosoma.
  • Pinworms – small, thin, pin-shaped worms that can live in the human colon and rectum.

What Are the Most Common Diseases Caused by the Immune System?

There are many different diseases that are commonly caused by the immune system. They include allergies, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, autoimmune disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, lymphedema, mononucleosis, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Allergies – a substance that is usually not harmful, like pollen, causing the immune system to overact and produce antibodies.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) – development of severe signs and symptoms caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) as it destroys lymphocytes, leaving the immune system weaker.

Autoimmune Disease – occurs when the body can’t distinguish between its own antigens and outside antigens, causing the body to fight its own tissue.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) – a condition of sever tiredness that cannot be relieved by rest and not related to illness.

Lymphedema – blockage of the lymphatic vessels that drain excess fluids from areas of the body, which may be caused by a parasitic infection, or other medical condition.

Mononucleosis – also known as mono, a highly contagious viral infection spread through the saliva from kissing, coughing and sneezing.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – occurs when a patient’s cells attack the central nervous system.

Rheumatoid Arthritis – an autoimmune disease that causes gradual debilitating damage to joints.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) – also known as lupus, an autoimmune disorder that affects the organ systems of the body. The body creates antibodies that target the person’s own cells and tissue.

Did learning about the immune system interest you? Ready to become a medical assistant? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training. The core curriculum focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills. These medical assisting courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.

Common Diseases and Disorders of the Integumentary System’s Skin

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Did you know that our skin accounts for 15% of our entire body weight? Skin, part of the integumentary system, is the outer shelf of our body and is the largest multifunctioning organ in the body. Patients may ask you as a medical assistant, why do we have skin on our bodies? How does my skin heal? What are the most common diseases and disorders of the integumentary system that a medical assistant may deal with regularly?  This lesson in anatomy will be important for the medical assistant to know when educating patients about their bodies and assisting physicians with diagnosis and treatment of the integumentary system diseases and disorders.

Why Do We have Skin on Our Bodies?

Our Integumentary System has an important job for the human body. It provides protection against diseases, disorders, bacteria and viruses as long as the skin is intact. The skin protects us from UV rays and works with the body to regulate the body’s temperature. Further, the skin can turn sunlight into Vitamin D and can expel waste through sweat.

The skin is made up of three layers the epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous layer. The epidermis is made up of cells that constantly divide, pushing old cells to the surface. The dermis contains all the tissue types of the skin and includes our sweat glands, hair follicles and blood vessels. The subcutaneous layer stores fat and cushions our body’s organs.

How Does My Skin Heal?

When skin is injured it becomes inflamed. The blood vessels dilate causing the area to look red. The inflammation actually promotes healing of the wound since more blood travels to the wound and the blood carries nutrients to heal the skin.

What are the Most Common Diseases and Disorders of the Integumentary System?

As a medical assistant, it will be important to become familiar with the common diseases and disorders of the integumentary system. You will know what to look for during an initial patient exam and educate patients that may have questions or concerns about their skin.

Acne –  Acne is the most common skin disorder in the United States, affecting up to 50 million Americans annually, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that occurs primarily on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms. Acne can be caused by overactive oil glands that produce too much oil and plug pores of the skin. Acne can be caused by genetics, hormones, menstruation, stress and some medications. It can also be caused by foods with a high glycemic index including grains and sweets. Treatment of acne can be done by gently washing the affected areas or the use of over-the-counter medication. Topical therapy is used for mild acne and oral antibiotics can be used for more severe acne.

Birthmarks – many people are born with birthmarks. Over 80 percent of babies have some kind of birthmark when born or shortly after, according to the Baby Center. They are brown, tan, blue, pink or red and can occur anywhere on the body. The exact cause of birthmarks is unknown. Make sure to have birthmarks checked regularly especially if they change color, shape or size. Also see a doctor if they bleed, ooze, or begin to itch. Don’t allow excessive sun exposure because the birthmarks can become cancerous.

Burns – Over 486,000 people in the U.S. were treated for burn injuries in 2016, according to the American Burn Association.  The affected body surface area and severity of the burn factor into the prediction of death from burn injury. The degrees of burn severity include superficial or first-degree burns, partial thickness or second-degree burns and full-thickness or third-degree burns. Superficial burns can cause pain, redness and swelling in the patient. Unless they are extensive, they do not require medical attention. Partial thickness burns affect the epidermis and dermis layers of skin. Medical staff should treat any second-degree burn that affects more than one percent of the body surface. Full-thickness burns involve all layers of the skin and sometimes the muscles and bones. Third-degree burns always require medical attention regardless of the size or severity.

Dermatitis – inflammation of skin or a rash. Atopic dermatitis affects at least 28 million people, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Dermatitis commonly occurs when the patient comes in contact with an allergen or irritant. Treatment of dermatitis is common performed with the help of topical ointments and cold compresses.

Herpes Zoster – commonly known as shingles. Is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox at an early age. The virus remains dormant until later in life when it is activated as shingles. Almost 1 out of every 3 people in the U.S. will develop shingles, in their lifetime, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Herpes zoster can cause a painful blistering rash on the skin area along the pathway of an affected nerve root. There is a vaccine that can reduce the risk of shingles and some antiviral medications can shorten the duration of the disease. Pain medications can be taken to assist with pain control.

Hives – a skin rash triggered by a reaction to food, medicine or other irritants. About 20 percent of people will gets hives sometime during their life, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Symptoms of hives include itchy, raised, red or skin-colored welts on the skin’s surface. Hives typically go away without treatment. Get treatment if hives last more than six weeks.

Measles – also known as rubeola, it is a viral infection that is preventable by vaccine. In 2016, about 85% of children in the world received the measles vaccine, according to the World Health Organization. Measles spreads through the air by respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. Symptoms usually appear after 10 days of exposure and cause a cough, runny nose, inflamed eyes, sore throat, fever, and a red, blotchy skin rash. Measles typically resolves within a few days or weeks and fever reducers can help with the symptoms.

Psoriasis – common chronic, inflammatory skin disorder. Almost 7.5 million people have psoriasis in the U.S., according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Although psoriasis is most likely an inherited autoimmune disorder, it is usually dormant until the patient experiences stress or anxiety. The skin will break out in silvery and scaly skin lesions that are itchy. Psoriasis can also cause joint pain. This skin disorder can typically be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs and therapeutic ointments.

Skin Cancer – skin cancer develops from cells in the skin’s epidermis. It is common in people that have had excessive exposure to sunlight. Each year, in the U.S., over 3.3 million people are treated for nonmelanoma skin cancer, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. The most common skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, and the deadliest of skin cancers is malignant melanoma.

Warts – harmless skin growths that most commonly appear on the hands, feet and face. Warts are caused by a virus and can look different depending on the situation. They can be smooth, flat, rough, raised, dark, small and/or large. Warts are removed by over the counter medication, surgery, lasers, freezing or burning.

Interested in learning more about the body’s skin, the integumentary system and how it affects patient’s health? Ready to become a medical assistant? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training. The core curriculum focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills. These medical assisting courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.

 

The Benefits of Electronic Health Records (EHR)

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Interested in becoming a medical assistant? The medical assistant is tasked with managing and updating electronic health records to keep track of patient’s health, treatment and procedures. That way everyone that treats the patient will have access to the patient’s electronic health record. There are many benefits of electronic health records. But first, what is an electronic health record?

What is an Electronic Health Record

The electronic health record (EHR) is a systemized collection of a patient’s electronically stored health information. The electronic health records can be shared by all providers in a patient’s care including physicians, medical offices and healthcare professionals.

Some of the information recorded in electronic medical records includes vital signs, medical history, medications, immunization status, laboratory test results, radiology images, patient demographics and all insurance billing information.

Patient Benefits of Electronic Health Records

Some of the benefits of electronic health records include improved patient outcomes, collective care throughout the patient’s life, historical tracking of patient records, proper monitoring of patients, less errors and duplicate testing, time and resources savings, and confidential and secure patient information.

Electronic Health Records Help Improve Patient Outcomes – The system can be set up to alert the health care provider of possible complications, allergies to certain medications, critical lab values or an alert that the patient is due for an important test.

Collective Care Throughout the Patients Life – The electronic health record can be accessed, created, managed and consulted by authorized providers and staff from multiple health care organizations. Patients receive better medical treatment due to the ability to share the electronic health records among the healthcare provider community which are involved in the patient’s care. The health care provider doesn’t have to wait hours for the patient’s medical records to be received via mail or fax. With electronic health records, they are available to another medical provider almost instantaneously. By sharing the information with all health care providers and facilities involved in the care of a particular patient, the risks of medical errors are lowered, the patient doesn’t have to endure and pay for duplicate tests, and overall quality of care improves. With electronic health records, the patient is also able to access and respond to physicians with the use of communication tools including text messages and emails.

Historical Tracking of Patient Records – The physician has access to the patient’s health care records across their entire life, offering explanations for different conditions or treatments that have been tested. Many patients move from one physician to the next and each physician will be able to access the patient’s notes in electronic format.

Properly Monitor Patients – By using electronic medical records, the health care community can properly monitor a patient and understand when screenings are necessary or when preventative care is administered.

Less Errors and Duplicate Testing – With the help of electronic health records, physicians will not make errors in medications prescribed and treatments offered. If a patient reported an allergy to one physician, all physicians that access the medical records will know about the allergy and not prescribe medication that will cause an adverse reaction. Electronic health records will also reduce the amount of duplicate test that are performed due to lack of insight into other physician’s treatments and medical records.

Time and Resources Savings – Many physicians had resources dedicated to managing incoming and outgoing files for all patients. Time and resources were wasted by the inefficiency of the old filing processes. Having electronic medical records and a universal coding system allows more time for physicians to help their patients.

Confidential and Secure Personal Information – By keeping patient’s personal information in a secure environment, it is harder for people to steal paper documents or intercept mail that holds confidential patient information. Medical records can be accessed only by those who have permission. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) specifies who can access a patient’s private medical records and when. It established boundaries on the exchange of medical records for all health care providers.

Healthcare Industry Benefits of Electronic Health Records

The healthcare industry benefits from EHRs by creating better research.

Better Research For All – With all the patient’s history, treatments and other healthcare information searchable in electronic format, it gives medical research professionals an easier way to compile data and identify trends in the global population. Major illnesses and the treatments for those illnesses can be identified quicker and with a greater data set.

Did learning about the benefits of electronic health records interest you? Ready to become a medical assistant? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training. The core curriculum focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills. These medical assisting courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.

 

The Skills to Become a Small Business Bookkeeper

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Did you know that here are over 29 million small businesses in the U.S., according to the Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy? Small businesses make up 99.7 percent of all U.S. employer firms and almost all of the small businesses need a bookkeeper. Keeping accurate financial records is important to the success of any small business, and it is important for the bookkeeper to have advanced bookkeeping skills, computerized bookkeeping skills, basic office skills, knowledge of Microsoft Office, business math and English fundamentals.

Advanced Bookkeeping Skills

Small business bookkeeping involves credits, debits, journaling, general ledger, adjustments, closing entries and financial statements. It also includes accounting for sales, purchases, payables, cash receipts, payroll, accruals and closing procedures.

Credits – entry that either increases a liability or equity account or decreases an asset or expense account.

Debits – entry that either increases an asset or expense account or decreases a liability or equity account.

Journaling – the logging of a transaction into a journal entry in chronological order.

General Ledger –  a record that keeps accounting transactions by account.

Adjustments – a transaction that has not yet been included in the accounting records.

Closing Entries – entries made at the end of an accounting period to reset all temporary accounts to zero and transfer their balances to permanent accounts.

Financial Statements – records that outline the financial activities of a small business. The financial statements a small business bookkeeper may encounter include income statements, balance sheets and cash flow statement.

  • Income Statements – provides an overview of revenues, expenses, net income and earnings per share.
  • Balance Sheet – provides an overview of assets, liabilities and stockholder’s equity. It is generally completed at the end of the fiscal year.
  • Cash Flow Statement – merges the balance sheet and the income statement. It shows how changes in balance sheet accounts and income affect cash while breaking the analysis down into operating, investing and financing activities.

Computerized Bookkeeping Skills

Computerized bookkeeping systems are software program that allow a small business bookkeeper to set up income and expense accounts. These software programs can also be used to manage bank accounts, pay bills and prepare budgets. Knowledge of software applications including QuickBooks and Peachtree are important to master as they are used during the course of small business bookkeeping.

QuickBooks – a small business bookkeeping software solution for the management of payroll, inventory, sales and other small business needs. QuickBooks can monitor expenses, create invoices, create reports, track change orders, track job status, and manage inventory, customers, vendors and employees.

Peachtree Bookkeeping Software – a bookkeeping application for small to medium-sized businesses that allows the bookkeeper to automate and manage accounting tasks including reconciling accounts payable and receivables. It can also help the bookkeeper create financial statements, check invoices, track payroll and integrate scanned documents.

Basic Office Skills

Office skills that a small business bookkeeper will perform include keyboarding, answering telephones, word processing, operation of office machinery and filing. During the course of completing basic office tasks, the small business bookkeeper will need to stay detail oriented, use organization skills, master communication skills and provide excellent customer service with managers and colleagues at the small business.

Microsoft Office

A small business bookkeeper must be proficient in Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access.

Microsoft Word – used for word processing and document development.

Microsoft Excel – used to develop worksheets, change appearances, incorporate formulas, implement advanced printing, graphics and links.

Microsoft PowerPoint – used to develop, customize and deliver a presentation.

Microsoft Access – used to build a database, obtain information, print reports and view information.

Business Math

A certain amount of math is required to be a small business bookkeeper. They must be aware of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Algebra is used in bookkeeping for equations, functions, graphing, liner and quadratic equations. However, much of the math and equation work is managed within Microsoft Excel or automated by accounting software. A small business bookkeeper doesn’t have to be a math whiz.

Business English

Proficiency in English is required to be a small business bookkeeper. Business English involves basic sentence fundamentals, punctuation, mechanics and grammar. Bookkeeping will also come with a specific set of context, vocabulary, abbreviations and grammatical structure.

Interested in joining a small business as a bookkeeper? Want to learn more about an accounting diploma program? The Accounting Diploma Program is designed to prepare college graduates to seek entry-level positions in the accounting and bookkeeping fields in 18 months with day classes and 24 months with evening classes.  The college graduate may work as an accounts receivable or accounts payable clerk, bookkeeper, payroll clerk, accounting assistant or inventory control clerk.

Contact us to learn more about how to become a small business bookkeeper.

Different Types of Massage Therapy Explained

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Over 32 percent of American adults surveyed, received a massage from 2011 to 2016, according to the American Massage Therapy Association. Further, employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 26 percent from 2016 to 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means there is a large need for massage therapists.

Ready to become a massage therapist? Interested in the different types of massage therapy? There are many different types of massage therapy to choose from and each have their own benefits. The different types of massage include Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, prenatal massage, reflexology, shiatsu massage, sports massage therapy and Thai massage.

Type #1: Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is the foundation for many types of massage therapy. During a Swedish massage, the massage therapist will perform various massage strokes. The specific massage strokes include effleurage (gliding) strokes, petrissage (kneading) strokes, friction, tapotement (percussive) strokes, and vibration. The Swedish massage techniques can vary by continuity, depth, direction, duration, excursion, intention, pressure, rhythm, sequence, speed, and touch.

Swedish massage movements help warm up the muscle tissue, increase circulation, lengthen muscles, release tension and break up muscle knots. These different movements are combined with joint movement to relax and energize the body.

Type #2: Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage offers deep pressure to release muscle tension. The focus of deep tissue massage is on the surroundings of muscles, bones and joints including the muscle tissue, tendons and fascia. This type of massage is used to improve posture and increase range of motion. Deep tissue massage helps break up scar tissue that forms in muscles from injury, poor posture, inflammation and repetitive motion.

Type #3:  Hot Stone Massage

Hot stone massage is the application of smooth, basalt mineral stones which are heated and combined with oil. This type of massage is designed to relieve muscle stiffness and reduce fatigue while restoring body energy. The hot stones may be placed in many different places on the body. Placement depends on muscles stiffness. Massage therapists may hold the hot stones as they massage the body using long strokes, circular movements, vibration, tapping and kneading.

Hot stone massage helps relieve muscle tension and pain by increasing blood flow to the stiff muscles of the body. Hot stone massage can help reduce spasms and increase flexibility and range of motion. This type of massage can also help reduce stress and anxiety

Type #4 Prenatal Massage

Massage therapy performed during pregnancy can reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve fatigue, reduce headaches, help control blood pressure, strengthen the immune system and help relax mothers during labor. It can relieve muscle aches and joint pains. It can also improve labor outcomes and newborn health. Prenatal massage is especially beneficial in the second and third trimesters, when the extra weight in the belly of the mother puts a strain on the back.

There are also benefits for the unborn baby. Some diseases and conditions are associated with stress during pregnancy. Maternal stress can be hard on a developing fetus and massage therapy helps reduce stress and anxiety in mothers-to-be, helping the unborn baby.

The father-to-be can also benefit from prenatal massage therapy. Attending a prenatal massage session will give the husband techniques to bring home to better support his pregnant wife. It can also help strengthen the bond between mother, father and baby.

Type #5: Reflexology

Reflexology is a type of massage used to relieve tension, based on a theory that there are reflex points on the hands, feet and ears linked to different parts of the body. Reflexology works by increasing circulation to the corresponding organ or area of the body. Reflexology may also work by stimulating the release of endorphins, a group of feel-good brain chemicals that reduce pain and diminish the negative effects of stress. The benefits of reflexology include decreased anxiety, headache relief, increased circulation, and promotion of healing.

Type #6: Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu massage is an alternative technique that uses the massage therapists’ thumbs, hands, elbows, knees and feet to focus on the body’s natural acupressure points. This massage pressure helps to improve the body’s energy and balance. Shiatsu massage helps increase energy, improves recovery from injuries and can stimulate the digestive system. This type of massage can also help reduce stress and tension, relief headaches, and improve circulation.

Type #7: Sports Massage Therapy

Sports massage therapy is ideal for the treatment of injuries and preventative treatment. This type of massage can help prepare athletes for an event and reduce recovery time while training. Sports massage therapy deals with the health of muscle and connective tissue. It can also be used for range of motion, tone, symmetry, increased circulation, balance of muscle and quality of posture. The benefits of sports massage therapy include the reduction of muscle tension, promotion of relaxation, reduction of muscle hypertonicity, increased range of motion, decreased muscle stiffness and fatigue after exercise, decreased muscle soreness, reduced swelling, enhanced athletic performance. Sports massage therapy can also help prevent injuries when massage is received regularly.

Type #8: Thai Massage

Thai massage is like assisted yoga and uses stretching and pressure to increase flexibility, relieve muscle tension, restore balance to the body and increase energy. The massage therapist may use their hands, knees, legs and feet to assist clients in different yoga movements to stretch muscles and apply deep muscle compression. The benefits of Thai massage include headache relief, reduction in back pain, muscle pain relief, increased range of motion, and improved circulation.

Interested in learning more about the different types of massage therapy? Ready to become a massage therapist? Upon graduation, Massage Therapy Program students will receive diplomas and be qualified to seek entry-level positions as clinical, medical, or deep tissue massage therapists in wellness clinics and centers, spa environments including resorts and franchises, and self-employment.

Contact us to learn more about how you can become a massage therapist today.

 

The Importance of Medical Terminology and Accuracy

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Although more paper documents are becoming electronic health records, there are instances when a paper document is needed and used, in this digital age. A medical assistant will still need to become familiar with important paper documents and their uses. Some examples include medical history surveys, consent forms, medical charts, letters and memos. The medical assistant is responsible for accurate documentation and maintenance of patient medical records. Without accurate and complete patient medical records, the patient can receive inadequate treatment. Patient medical records include personal information and data, physical and mental conditions, medical history, and current medical care. Patient medical records can serve as a communication tool and as legal documents.

Communication Tool

There are many important uses for patient medical records. They can be used for patient education, to evaluate quality of care and to support medical research.

Patient Education – Patient medical records can be used to educate patients about their condition and the treatment plans created by the physician. By keeping accurate medical records, the patient and physician can follow the trend lines of many vital signs to understand if the patient is following treatment instructions.

Quality of Care – Patient medical records are used to evaluate the quality of care a physician provides. With the help of complete medical records, auditing teams can monitor whether the care and the fees for that care meet the accepted standards. Medical records can also be used to help improve future treatment by making better decisions.

Medical Research – patient medical records are important for researchers to compile information about a medicine or treatment and the outcomes. What side effects did the patient experience? What were the ultimate outcomes? Medical records can also spur new medical research by finding trends in the data that might not have been seen previously.

Legal Guidelines for Patient Medical Records

Patient medical records are important for legal reasons. If the information is not documented, then it can’t be proven that an event or procedure occurred. According to the Federal False Claims Act it is required that patient medical records be kept for 10 years.

All medical procedures, treatment, instructions and care must be documented. Since every entry into the patient medical record is important and legally binding, it must be written clear, accurate, legibly, dated, signed and per HIPAA guidelines. The physician and medical assistant should never include opinions on a medical record. If the medical records are incomplete and illegible than it can be suggested that the level of care the physician provided was also below standard.

The Six C’s of Medical Records

Medical assistants should memorize these terms, six C’s to maintain accurate patient medical records. Client’s Words, Clarity, Completeness, Conciseness, Chronological Order and Confidentiality.

Client’s Words – a medical assistant should always record the patient’s exact words. They shouldn’t rephrase or summarize the sentence. The exact words will help the physician make a more accurate diagnosis.

Clarity – use accepted medical terminology when describing a patient’s condition.

Completeness – fill out all forms completely and provide complete information for any notations made in the medical record.

Conciseness – be brief and to the point. To save time, the medical assistant can use agreed upon terminology and abbreviations.

Chronological Order – the medical assistant must date all entries to document when they were made. This is important for documenting patient care and to resolve any legal questions about the medical services performed.

Confidentiality – all information in patient medical records is confidential and the information should never be discussed unless the medical assistant has the express written consent of the patient. The only exceptions are for medical personal that are performing direct care to the patient.

Complete and Understood Medical Records

It is just as important for medical professionals to understand the medical records as well as being complete. Medical records should be legible, timely and accurate.

Legibility – The use of medical transcription can be important to transfer written notes or dictation to electronic health records. The medical assistant will need to be familiar with standard abbreviations, medical terminology and medical coding. The medical assistant should always date and initial all transcription pages. All transcription should consider the six C’s to be accurate, complete, use proper grammar, correct spelling and accurate recording of abbreviations and medical terminology.

Timeliness – all medical records should be kept up-to-date and available for medical assistants and physicians to use in treatment of the patient. The medical assistant will want to record all exams and test results as soon as they are available. To document phone calls, the medical assistant will record the date and time of the call, the caller’s name and phone number, the information discussed and any results.

Accuracy – the medical assistant will want to check all medical records for accuracy to ensure accurate data and to provide proper care to the patient. The medical assistant should double check the accuracy of the findings and medical instructions recorded in the medical record. Also, they will want to make sure that the latest information has been updated to the medical record, so the physician has the most accurate data to make decisions.

Are you interested in learning more about the importance of medical terminology and accuracy? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training. The core curriculum focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills. These medical assisting courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.

Physical Examination Assessment Tools, Instruments and Supplies

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Physical assessments are important for catching disorders and diseases before they affect a patient. A physical assessment should be completed when the patient is healthy, so the physician has a baseline for the patient’s condition. When the patient is sick or suffering from a medical problem, the physician and medical assistant can use the physical assessment tools to check the health of the patient and understand the treatments that are needed to help them recover. During a physical assessment, the medical assistant will assist the physician in the exam room. The medical assistant may check in the patient, escort the patient to the examination room, prepare the patient for the examination, manage the tools, instruments and supplies for the physician, and help the patient after the exam scheduling any follow up appointments.

Physical Assessment Tools, Instruments and Supplies

The physician primarily works with the physical assessment tools; however, the medical assistant must become familiar with their uses to assist the physician during a physical assessment. The medical assistant can also be responsible for disinfecting and sanitizing the instruments and preparing them for the physician before the next physical examination. The physical assessment includes an audioscope, examination light, laryngeal mirror, nasal speculum, otoscope, ophthalmoscope, penlight, percussion hammer, sphygmomanometer, stethoscope, thermometer, and tuning fork.

Audioscope – tool used to screen patients for hearing loss. The audioscope is placed in the patient’s ear and makes a serious of tones which the patient can respond to.

Examination Light – the medical assistant must make sure that all lights in the physical examination room are functioning properly and directed appropriately for the physician to exam the patient’s body.

Laryngeal Mirror – tool used to exam the larynx and other areas of the throat. The laryngeal mirror reflects the inside of the mouth and throat for the physical examination. It may be used to visualize the throat for the application of anesthesia or to remove tissue from the mouth.

Nasal Speculum – tool inserted into the nostril to assist the physician with the visual inspection of the lining of the nose, nasal membranes and septum.

Otoscope – allows the physician to view the ear canal and tympanic membrane.  The otoscope has a magnifying lens, light and cone-shaped insert to examine the inner ear.

Ophthalmoscope – tool used to examine the interior structures of the eye. The ophthalmoscope has a light, magnifying lens and opening for the physician to view the eye.

Penlight – provides additional light for the physician to examine a specific area of the patient’s body. The penlight is typically used to examine the eyes, nose and throat.

Percussion Hammer – tool used to test neurologic reflexes. The head of the instrument is used to test reflexes by striking the tendons of the ankle, knee, wrist and elbow.

Sphygmomanometer – physical examination tool used to measure a patient’s blood pressure. The sphygmomanometer is composed of an inflatable rubber cuff, a bulb that inflates and releases pressure from the cuff, and use of a stethoscope to listen to arterial blood flow in the patient.

Stethoscope – tool used for listening to body sounds including the sounds of the heart, lungs and intestines. It is also used while taking blood pressure.

Thermometer – tool used to measure a patient’s body temperature. The thermometer can be inserted in the mouth under the tongue, under the armpit or into the rectum.

Tuning Fork – tool used to test a patient’s hearing. The physician strikes the prongs causing them to vibrate and produce a humming sound. Then the prongs are placed next to the patient’s skull, near the ear, with the patient describing what they heard. The physician may order additional tests depending on the results of this hearing test.

Physical Assessment Tools & Supplies

Additional Supplies are needed for a general physical examination. They include cotton balls, cotton-tipped applicators, disposable needles, disposable syringes, gauze, dressings and bandages, gloves, paper tissues, specimen containers, and tongue depressors.

Cotton Balls – used to stop bleeding from minor punctures after injections or while drawing a patient’s blood.

Cotton-Tipped Applicators – used to collect or treat a wound and to apply topical medication to the patient during a physical examination.

Disposable Needles – used to inject medicine, anesthetic or other fluids during a physical examination. Also used to extract blood from the patient for laboratory testing.

Disposable Syringes – added to a needle to extract blood or inject fluids during a physical examination.

Gauze, Dressings and Bandages – used to cover up open wounds. Non-sterile pads can be used to cushion, clean or absorb areas that are at less risk of infection.

Gloves – worn by the medical assistant and physician to keep bodily fluids from being absorbed into the skin.

Paper Tissue – helps keep exam chairs, tables and other areas hygienic. The paper tissue is replaced between each examination by the medical assistant.

Specimen Containers – used to hold blood, urine and other bodily fluids during an examination for later laboratory testing.

Tongue Depressors – used to depress the tongue of a patient to examine the mouth and throat during a physical examination.

Are you ready to learn more about how you can assist a physician with patient exams and assessments? Are you interested in becoming a medical assistant? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training in the healthcare field. The core curriculum focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills.

Contact Gwinnett College today to learn more about how you can become a Medical Assistant and start your exciting career in the healthcare field!

 

Geriatrics & Long-Term Care Medical Assistants

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Annually over 8 million people receive support for long-term care, according to the Family Caregiver Alliance. It is estimated that by 2050 there will be 27 million people in need of long-term care in response to the growth in the population of older people. More than half of adults age 65 and older have 3 or more medical problems including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease and high blood pressure, according to Healthinaging.org.

A medical assistant can choose the specialty of geriatrics. A medical assistant can work at a traditional family practice, in a long-term care facility or with a Geriatrician and their team. They must also understand the common geriatric patient’s medical problems and treat their geriatric patients with respect and dignity.

Respect & Dignity

The medical assistant must respect the geriatric patient and treat them with dignity. They will want to be courteous, polite and kind while interacting with the geriatric patient. The medical assistant will also want to treat the geriatric patient as a human being. They should understand that the geriatric patient wants to be seen, heard, listened to, and treated fairly.

What is Geriatrics?

Geriatrics is the branch of medicine dealing with the health care of the older adult population. Healthcare becomes more complex as one ages, and one may encounter more medical conditions. The specialty of geriatrics focuses on how medical conditions impact one another and how both medical conditions and medications affect someone as they age.

What is Long-Term Care?

Long-term care is a set of services and supports that help geriatric patients with personal care needs. This can include assistance with the basic personal tasks of everyday life including bathing, dressing, using the bathroom, moving around and eating. Long-term care can also include meals, adult day care and transportation services. The medical assistant can work at a long-term care facility performing many administrative duties and supporting staff while caring for patients.

What are the Common Medical Problems for Seniors?

A medical assistant will need to be aware of the common medical problems if they are to work with geriatric patients. Common medical problems for seniors include Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, dementia, diabetes, general memory loss, high blood pressure and Parkinson’s disease.

Alzheimer’s Disease – a progressive disease that destroys memory, thinking and behavior. The symptoms include memory loss and confusion. Aggression and anger are part of the decline and should not be taken personally. In 2017, tt was estimated that 5.5 million Americans were living with Alzheimer’s dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Arthritis – painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions, according to the Arthritis Foundation. More than 50 million adults in the U.S. have some type of arthritis. Common symptoms of joint arthritis include swelling, pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.

Cardiovascular Disease – heart condition that includes diseased blood vessels, structural heart problems and blood clots. It is related to atherosclerosis, which is a condition that develops when plaque builds up in the walls of the arteries. Different types of cardiovascular disease include heart valve problems, arrhythmia, heart attack and stroke. Symptoms include chest pain, tightness, pressure, and discomfort; shortness of breath; pain, numbness, weakness or coldness in the legs or arm; and pain in the neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen or back. Risk factors of cardiovascular disease include diabetes, obesity, poor diet, physical inactivity and excessive alcohol use. Almost half of Americans have at least one of the risk factors for heart cardiovascular disease, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Dementia – some memory loss and difficulty with thought processes as a result of aging. Typically, as a result of a disease or as a side effect of medication. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia and accounts for up to 80 percent of all dementia cases, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Diabetes (Type 2) – a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar. In the early stages of pre-diabetes there may be no symptoms and only a blood test can identify the condition. Symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, increase appetite, fatigue and blurred vision. In 2015, the percentage of Americans age 65 and older was 25% or 12 million seniors, according to the American Diabetes Association.

General Memory Loss – geriatric patients may experience memory loss and it is important for the medical assistant to build a rapport with them to make sure they take their medication as prescribed. The best way for a medical assistant to convey medical information is by writing down the instructions for later use and have the geriatric patient read back the instructions to the medical assistant. Another way to remind geriatric patients is to provide a calendar of appointments with a list of times, days for treatment and medication.

High Blood Pressure – when the force of the blood pushing against the walls of the blood vessels is consistently too high. High blood pressure usually has no warning signs or symptoms. Risk factors for high blood pressure include smoking, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity. About 75 million American adults have high blood pressure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Parkinson’s Disease – a slow, progressive neurologic disorder affecting brain cells that produce the neurotransmitter dopamine. Symptoms include muscle rigidity, abnormally slow voluntary movements, difficult walking, forward-bending posture, monotone voice, drooling, mask face, and small tremors starting in the fingers. Approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease each year, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Enjoy helping others with geriatric care? Interested in becoming a medical assistant and working in a physician’s office, geriatric practice or long-term care facility? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training. The core curriculum focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills. These medical assisting courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.

2018 Graduation – Marietta and Sandy Springs only!

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Graduates, families, and friends –

On Saturday, April 21, 2018, the Marietta campus and Sandy Springs campus will be holding a joint graduation ceremony. This ceremony will be for all graduates of these campuses who finished their courses of study in November 2017, December 2017, February 2018, and April 2018.

Graduates – Rehearsal for the ceremony is being held at 9:45am the morning of graduation, so please arrive early!

WHERE:
First United Church of Marietta
56 Whitlock Avenue SW
Marietta, GA 30064
www.mariettafumc.org

WHEN:
Saturday, April 21, 2018
11:00am

CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!