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.
A medical assistant is an unlicensed health-care worker who provides clerical and clinical support in a clinic or physicianâs office. Some medical assistants practice only in the front office, performing tasks such as patient registration, making appointments or doing filing and billing. Others perform clinical tasks, such as taking a patientâs blood pressure or weight. Some MAs fill both roles.