the tasks of medical assistants

Interview patients to obtain medical information and measure their vital signs, weight, and height.
Show patients to examination rooms and prepare them for the physician.
Record patients' medical history, vital statistics and information such as test results in medical records.
Prepare and administer medications as directed by a physician.
Collect blood, tissue or other laboratory specimens, log the specimens, and prepare them for testing.
Explain treatment procedures, medications, diets and physicians' instructions to patients.
Help physicians examine and treat patients, handing them instruments and materials or performing such tasks as giving injections or removing sutures.
Authorize drug refills and provide prescription information to pharmacies.
Prepare treatment rooms for patient examinations, keeping the rooms neat and clean.
Clean and sterilize instruments and dispose of contaminated supplies.