1. (1) DEFINITION.--As used in this section, "medical assistant" means a professional multiskilled person dedicated to assisting in all aspects of medical practice under the direct supervision and responsibility of a physician. This practitioner assists with patient care management, executes administrative and clinical procedures, and often performs managerial and supervisory functions. Competence in the field also requires that a medical assistant adhere to ethical and legal standards of professional practice, recognize and respond to emergencies, and demonstrate professional characteristics.

2. (2) DUTIES.--Under the direct supervision and responsibility of a licensed physician, a medical assistant may undertake the following duties:

   1. (a) Performing clinical procedures, to include:

      1. Performing aseptic procedures.

      2. Taking vital signs.

      3. Preparing patients for the physician's care.

      4. Performing venipunctures and nonintravenous injections.

      5. Observing and reporting patients' signs or symptoms.

   2. (b) Administering basic first aid.
   3. (c) Assisting with patient examinations or treatments.
   4. (d) Operating office medical equipment.
   5. (e) Collecting routine laboratory specimens as directed by the physician.
   6. (f) Administering medication as directed by the physician.
   7. (g) Performing basic laboratory procedures.
   8. (h) Performing office procedures including all general administrative duties required by the physician.
   9. (i) Performing dialysis procedures, including home dialysis.
3. (3) CERTIFICATION.--Medical assistants may be certified by the American Association of Medical Assistants or as a Registered Medical Assistant by the American Society of Medical Technologists.

History.--s. 7, ch. 84-543; s. 7, ch. 84-553; ss. 21, 26, ch. 86-245; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 28, ch. 97-264.