Patient Safety & Comfort Flashcards

While transporting, a patient suddenly becomes pale, sweaty, and says they feel faint. What should the transporter do first?

Answer: Stop, keep the patient safe, and call for clinical help immediately

A sudden change in condition means you stop, keep the patient safe, and get clinical staff right away.

When pushing a stretcher, in which direction should the patient normally travel down a hallway?

Answer: Feet first

Moving feet first lets the transporter, standing at the head, watch the patient's face and airway.

A patient in a wheelchair has an IV pole. Where should the IV bag be kept during transport?

Answer: Hanging on the pole above the insertion site

Keeping the bag above the insertion site keeps the fluid flowing and stops blood from backing up into the line.

Which action best protects patient privacy and dignity during transport?

Answer: Keeping the patient covered and avoiding talk about their condition in public areas

Covering the patient and keeping health information private protects dignity and follows HIPAA.

What is the safest way to enter an elevator with a stretcher?

Answer: Enter backward, pulling the stretcher in so the patient's head goes in first

Backing in and pulling the stretcher keeps you in control and positions the patient safely.

A patient on a stretcher says they feel cold during transport through a long corridor. What is the most appropriate action?

Answer: Offer an additional warm blanket while keeping lines and tubes visible

A warm blanket gives comfort, and keeping lines visible lets you keep checking them.

Before moving a patient from a bed to a stretcher, what should the transporter do with the bed and stretcher wheels?

Answer: Lock the wheels on both the bed and stretcher

Locking both surfaces stops either one from rolling apart during the transfer and causing a fall.