Certified Clinical Medical Assistant CCMA Practice Test

Which of the following lab values should an MA immediately report to a patient's provider?

1. Cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL

2. Blood glucose 500 mg/dL

3. White blood cell count of 10,000/μL

4. Platelet count of 300,000/μL

The correct answer is: Blood glucose 500 mg/dL

A blood glucose level of 500 mg/dL is significantly elevated and is indicative of severe hyperglycemia. This condition can lead to serious complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state, both of which require immediate medical intervention. Reporting this lab value to the provider is critical to ensure that the patient receives the appropriate and urgent care needed to manage their blood sugar levels and prevent potential life-threatening consequences. In contrast, a cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL is at the upper limit of what is typically considered acceptable for adults. A white blood cell count of 10,000/μL falls within the normal range for most adults, indicating no current infection or acute inflammation. A platelet count of 300,000/μL is also within the normal range, suggesting normal blood clotting function. While these values may warrant monitoring, they do not necessitate immediate action like the significantly high blood glucose level does.