Certified Medical Assistant Practice Exam

Which of the following would be considered an example of objective clinical evidence?

1. High cholesterol levels, fatigue, and dizziness

2. Lab results showing abnormal liver function

3. Rapid breathing, pale skin, and low blood pressure

4. High blood pressure, elevated temperature, and swollen ankle

The correct answer is: High blood pressure, elevated temperature, and swollen ankle

Objective clinical evidence refers to information that can be observed or measured directly, without relying on personal feelings or interpretations. This often includes measurable data such as vital signs, lab results, and physical findings that provide a clear indication of a patient's health status. The option that presents high blood pressure, elevated temperature, and swollen ankle meets this definition. High blood pressure (hypertension) is a measurable physiological parameter, as is an elevated temperature, while a swollen ankle can be objectively observed by a healthcare professional during a physical examination. All these findings are quantifiable and can be validated through medical tools (like sphygmomanometers for blood pressure and thermometers for body temperature), which supports their classification as objective evidence. The other options contain elements that may include subjective interpretations. For example, high cholesterol levels and fatigue may involve reported symptoms from the patient. Rapid breathing, pale skin, and low blood pressure can be observed signs; however, the interpretation of symptoms like fatigue might vary based on personal experience. Lab results showing abnormal liver function are also considered objective evidence but may not be as immediate or observable as the physical signs presented in the selected answer.