Clinically it is felt as crepitus and, if extensive, may cause soft tissue swelling and discomfort. Even when severe subcutaneous emphysema is typically benign, although complications such as airway compromise, respiratory failure, pacemaker malfunction and tension phenomena have been described.
A medical assistant may lawfully perform spirometric pulmonary function testing if the test is a usual and customary part of the medical practice where the medical assistant is employed, and the requirements for training, competency, authorization and supervision are satisfied.
What is a Medical Assistant? A medical assistant is a multi-skilled professional and a valuable asset to a physician. They are an integral part of the healthcare team assisting in patient care management. They perform several functions, for instance: administrative medical assistants are tasked to update and file the medical records of patients. They also file insurance forms, arrange and organize hospital admissions and laboratory services. In the US, physicians and hospitals rely heavily on the skills of medical assistants to keep accurate and comprehensive records.