Certified Medical Assistant Practice Exam

If a mass is felt in a patient's neck, the finding is classified as which of the following?

1. Subjective

2. Objective

3. Assessment

4. Plan

The correct answer is: Objective

When a mass is palpated in a patient's neck, it is classified as an objective finding. This classification is rooted in the distinction between subjective and objective findings in clinical practice. Objective findings are measurable and observable by healthcare professionals during a physical examination. In this case, the mass can be examined and confirmed through physical examination techniques, making it a tangible piece of information that health care providers can use to assess a patient’s condition. On the other hand, subjective findings involve patient-reported symptoms that cannot be independently verified through observation, such as pain or discomfort. The correct categorization of the mass as an objective finding helps in accurately diagnosing and planning further management for the patient. The terms "assessment" and "plan" refer to other aspects of the clinical process, one being the interpretation of findings and the other concerning future actions regarding patient care.