Clinical Procedures - GCC

An introduction to the knowledge and clinical procedures performed by medical assistants, including patient instruction for diagnostic procedures, phlebotomy for lab tests, electrocardiography, assisting the physician with office procedures and the physical exam, and assisting with minor surgery in the ambulatory care setting, while understanding the importance of sterilization, infectious agents and infection control. Develop an understanding of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)-required safety precautions, personal protective equipment (PPE), forms of asepsis, quality control and handling of microbiological specimens, use of Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)-waived tests, precautions taken with regard to body fluids, and the role of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regulations in the healthcare setting. Students learn to develop an environmental safety plan and participate in a mock environmental exposure event, while documenting steps taken. This is a lab course.