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.
Clinical Medical Assistants. The role of a clinical medical assistant is what most people imagine when they think of what medical assistants do. Clinical medical assistant duties depend upon the laws of their specific states, but their role is more medical than those of clerical and administrative medical assistants. The responsibilities of a clinical medical assistant may include: 1  Preparing Patients for Examinations. 2  Taking Medical Histories. 3  Assisting the Physician During Examinations. 4  Explaining Medical Procedures to Patients. 5  Calling in Prescriptions to Pharmacies. 6  Collect Laboratory Specimens. 7  Sterilize Medical Instruments.