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.
Medical assistants perform a variety of administrative and clinical duties under the supervision of a more senior caregiver such as physician, registered nurse or licensed vocational nurse.edical assistants (MA) should not be confused with physician assistants (PA). While both work under a physician's supervision, physician assistants have more responsibility and autonomy than medical assistants and therefore require more training.