MS Health Science
What is the single best way to prevent the spread of germs in healthcare settings?
Handwashing with soap and water (or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when appropriate).
Name three healthcare career pathways students might explore in Health Science CTE
Therapeutic Services, Diagnostic Services, Health Informatics (also: Support Services, Biotechnology Research & Development)
What is one common abbreviation for "prescription" used in medical records?
Rx
During a HOSA competition scenario, you must triage three patients: one with minor bleeding, one with chest pain, and one unconscious but breathing. Which patient gets priority and why?
The unconscious patient breathing is highest priority for immediate assessment and stabilization (or chest pain could be high priority depending on signs of cardiac distress). Explain triage principles: airway, breathing, circulation.
What is informed consent?
Permission granted by a patient after they understand the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a proposed treatment.
Name one type of personal protective equipment (PPE) used when there is a risk of bloodborne pathogens.
Gloves (other acceptable answers: gown, mask, face shield, goggles).
What is HIPAA and why is it important?
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act; it protects patients' private health information and sets rules for confidentiality.
Why is accurate medical terminology important in healthcare?
Ensures clear, precise communication, reduces errors, and standardizes records.
How long should you wash your hands with soap and water to effectively remove germs?
At least 20 seconds.
What is confidentiality and why is it important in patient care?
Keeping patient information private; it builds trust and follows legal/ethical rules.
Define "standard precautions.
Infection control practices that assume all blood and body fluids are potentially infectious and apply to all patients.
Describe one legal responsibility of healthcare workers when administering care
Obtain informed consent before treatment (other acceptable answers: document care accurately, report abuse, follow scope of practice).
What is the purpose of a patient care plan?
To outline patient needs, goals, interventions, and expected outcomes for coordinated care.
Name one type of personal protective equipment (PPE) used when there is a risk of bloodborne pathogens.
Gloves (also acceptable: gown, mask, face shield, goggles).
A patient refuses a life-saving blood transfusion for religious reasons. How should healthcare staff proceed ethically and legally?
Respect patient autonomy if decision is informed; provide information on risks/benefits and alternatives; involve ethics committee and document discussion; if patient is minor or incapacitated, follow legal requirements.
What is the meaning of the prefix "cardio-" in medical terminology?
Heart
What does HOSA stand for and what is its purpose for students?
Health Occupations Students of America; it provides leadership, skill development, and competitions for health science students.
Explain "scope of practice" and why following it matters for safety and legal reasons
Scope of practice defines the procedures and actions a healthcare worker is legally permitted to perform; following it protects patients and prevents legal consequences.
What is an example of an airborne disease that requires special precautions?
Tuberculosis (TB).
Describe an ethical dilemma a healthcare worker might face.
Example: A patient refuses life-saving treatment due to personal beliefs—balancing patient autonomy with beneficence.
Explain the difference between a sign and a symptom; give one example of each.
A sign is objective and can be observed/measured (example: fever measured with thermometer). A symptom is subjective and reported by the patient (example: headache).
Define "professionalism" in a healthcare setting and list two behaviors that show professionalism.
Professionalism means acting ethically, responsibly, and respectfully in the workplace. Behaviors: punctuality, appropriate dress, respectful communication, maintaining patient confidentiality.
A patient asks you to share their health information with a family member who is not listed as an authorized contact. What should you do and why?
Do not share protected information; verify authorization or obtain patient consent; follow HIPAA rules.
What is one correct handwashing step to ensure thorough cleaning?
Rub all surfaces including backs of hands, between fingers, and under nails for at least 20 seconds.
A coworker repeatedly ignores proper body mechanics and later reports back pain. As a team member, what actions should you take?
Encourage safe practices, offer to help with training or remind them of transfer aids, report to supervisor if safety risk persists.