A medical assistant's role is defined by a strict scope of practice that prohibits independent clinical assessment and complex medical procedures. Understanding what can a medical assistant not do is crucial for patient safety, legal compliance, and exam preparation. These limitations are consistently tested on certification exams like the CMA or RMA.
The core restrictions for a medical assistant involve three key areas: diagnosis, invasive procedures, and medication management.
- Prohibition of Assessment and Diagnosis: A medical assistant cannot independently assess patients, interpret test results, or formulate a diagnosis. Consequently, they must never communicate a diagnosis or prognosis to a patient. This function is reserved for licensed providers like physicians and nurse practitioners.
- Restriction on Invasive Procedures: While they can perform basic tasks like drawing blood, they are prohibited from performing complex or invasive procedures. Specifically, a medical assistant cannot suture wounds, administer anesthesia (including spinal blocks), or perform any form of surgery.
- Limitations on Medication:
- They cannot prescribe medications or adjust medication dosages.
- They are generally prohibited from administering intravenous (IV) medications or chemotherapy agents. State laws vary, but most restrict IV pushes and potent drugs.
Ultimately, the answer to what can a medical assistant not do centers on any action requiring independent clinical judgment. Their role is foundational and administrative, operating under direct supervision. Certification exams rigorously test these boundaries to ensure candidates understand their legal and professional limits, safeguarding both the practitioner and the public.