Physician Assistant skills for your resume and career

Patients are individuals who receive medical care and attention from a physician assistant. Physician assistants use patients by evaluating their conditions, performing physical exams, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and educating them on their health and treatment options. They assess patients' histories, manage their medication, and provide continuity care. They also counsel patients on health maintenance and education, and refer them to specialized care when necessary.

Diagnostic tests are methods used to determine the presence or absence of a disease or infection. Physician assistants use these tests to evaluate patients and diagnose conditions. They administer or order tests such as x-rays, electrocardiograms, and laboratory studies, and interpret the results. They also use the test results to determine the appropriate treatment and rehabilitation plans. For example, they may order diagnostic tests to evaluate chronic and acute disease processes, or to diagnose hematological disorders.

Surgery is a medical procedure involving an operation. Physician assistants use surgery in their job by assisting and shadowing physicians during operations. They prepare patients for surgery by obtaining medical histories, performing physical exams, and educating them on what to expect. They also help during the procedure by maintaining aseptic technique and promoting patient safety. After surgery, they manage post-operative care and help devise treatment plans for patients.

Primary care is the first point of contact for patients seeking medical care. Physician assistants use primary care to provide initial evaluations, follow-up care, and comprehensive management for outpatients. They deliver care for patients with various conditions, including mental illnesses and chronic diseases. They also coordinate care between primary care physicians and specialists.

Urgent care is medical assistance given immediately for conditions that are not life-threatening but need attention quickly. Physician assistants use urgent care by working independently in busy facilities, handling routine annual exams and daily open appointments for walk-in patients. They also provide primary and urgent care to active duty and retired military personnel, as well as treating various medical problems in different settings such as family medicine, emergency departments, and occupational medicine clinics.

Medical care refers to the services given to diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses or injuries. Physician assistants use medical care to assess the acuity of patients, coordinate routine care, and provide emergency care access. They also offer comprehensive care services, supervise medical in-processing, and provide individualized care to patients. They perform routine and emergency care, order and interpret laboratory and radiology results, and prescribe medications.

Acute care is the treatment of short-term illnesses or injuries that need immediate attention. Physician assistants use acute care in various ways, such as conducting daily active-duty care, providing preventative care in family practice settings, and managing patients in all levels of care, including ICU and telemetry. They also use acute care to treat a broad range of medical emergencies, from fractures and chest pain to diabetic emergencies and dehydration.

Physical exams are a thorough assessment of a patient's health, involving a review of their medical history and a physical assessment. Physician assistants use physical exams to diagnose and treat patients, gather information, and provide guidance. They conduct exams on patients of all ages, from adolescents to geriatrics, and use the results to order diagnostic tests, administer medications, and create treatment plans.

Test results are the outcomes of medical examinations and tests. Physician assistants use test results to diagnose and treat patients. They review and interpret these results to develop treatment plans. They also use test results to inform patients about their health and update them on their care. For example, a physician assistant may order a blood test, interpret the results, and then use that information to decide on the best course of treatment for the patient. They may also call patients with the test results and schedule follow-up appointments as needed.

Patient education is the process of teaching people about their health condition, the reasons behind their treatment, and how to manage their recovery. Physician assistants use patient education to inform patients about their gynecological therapies, preventative care, and disease management. They also educate patients on the importance of smoking cessation, contraception options, and health promotion. This education can come in various forms, such as creating patient education literature, delivering educational sessions, or even organizing culturally sensitive programs.

Laboratory tests are procedures to examine and analyze samples of blood, urine, or body tissues. Physician assistants use laboratory tests to determine treatment, order medications, and conduct sick-call. They interpret these tests to diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and refer patients to specialists when necessary.

Suturing is a medical procedure where a wound is closed using stitches. Physician assistants use suturing to treat various patient conditions, such as lacerations and minor surgical procedures. They perform procedures like incision and drainage, foreign body removal, and splinting, which often involve suturing. They also perform minor office surgical procedures and manage acute and chronic diseases.

Surgical procedures are medical operations to treat injuries or diseases. Physician assistants use surgical procedures in various ways. They perform minor surgeries, such as repairing lacerations and treating injuries like sprains and dislocations. They also assist physicians during operations, preparing necessary supplies and equipment. In some cases, they explain complex surgical procedures to patients and help decide if surgery is needed.

A patient history is a document that contains information about a patient's past illnesses, allergies, medications, and previous treatments. Physician assistants use patient histories to understand a patient's medical background. They take down the patient's history, perform physical examinations, and use that information to decide on the right medication or treatment. They also use electronic systems to review patient histories and medications. Depending on the patient's history and examination, they might order advanced imaging tests or dictate patient information.