Certified Clinical Medical Assistant CCMA Practice Test

At work, an MA cared for a neighbor who sustained multiple injuries in a fall. After work, another neighbor asks the assistant what happened to the neighbor who fell. Following the AAMA code of ethics, which of the following responses should the assistant make?

1. I can't share any information about what happens at my job

2. I don't want to talk about it

3. I will tell you everything

4. It was just a minor incident

The correct answer is: I can't share any information about what happens at my job

The appropriate response demonstrates adherence to confidentiality principles outlined in the AAMA code of ethics. When a medical assistant encounters inquiries about a patient’s condition, they are bound to respect patient privacy and confidentiality. By indicating that they cannot share any information about workplace incidents, the assistant upholds ethical standards and protects the integrity of the patient's personal health information. Other responses do not adequately address the importance of confidentiality. For instance, "I don't want to talk about it" may imply personal discomfort rather than acknowledging the ethical obligation to maintain patient privacy. Saying, "I will tell you everything" is inappropriate as it directly violates ethical guidelines by sharing potentially sensitive information. Claiming it was "just a minor incident" downplays the situation while still risking the confidentiality of the patient’s health status. Therefore, stating a commitment to confidentiality by refraining from sharing details is the most professional and ethically sound approach.