Wisconsin Nursing Home Administrators (NHA) Practice Exam

What does the term "physician extender" refer to?

1. A nurse who assists doctors during surgeries

2. A physician's assistant or nurse practitioner acting under a physician's supervision

3. A technician who operates medical equipment

4. A resident physician in training

The correct answer is: A physician's assistant or nurse practitioner acting under a physician's supervision

The term "physician extender" refers to healthcare professionals who assist physicians by providing primary healthcare and performing tasks traditionally done by doctors, such as diagnosing conditions, prescribing medication, and providing treatment. While nurses may assist doctors during surgeries, this is not the specific job description of a physician extender. Similarly, technicians who operate medical equipment do not have the same level of autonomy as physician extenders. While a resident physician in training may also work under the supervision of a doctor, they are not considered to be a physician extender. Only a physician's assistant or nurse practitioner acting under a physician's supervision fits the definition of a physician extender.