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 take vital signs, maintain records and schedule appointments in hospitals, physicians' offices and other health-care settings. Some medical assistants perform clinical tasks, such as taking X-rays or giving injections, depending on their qualifications and state law.