CPCT Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the CPCT exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 CPCT Exam Format at a Glance
📚 CPCT Topics to Study (33)
✍️ Sample CPCT Questions & Answers
1. Which of the following statements about a fistula is true?
An arteriovenous (AV) fistula is the preferred type of vascular access for hemodialysis due to its durability and lower complication rates. It is surgically created by connecting an artery and a vein, most commonly in the forearm near the wrist, to provide a robust blood flow necessary for effective dialysis treatment.
2. Incentive spirometry is used primarily to:
Incentive spirometry promotes sustained maximal inhalation to open alveoli and prevent post-operative atelectasis.
3. Which type of specimen collection device is used for capillary blood collection from a fingerstick?
A lancet is used to puncture the skin for capillary blood collection via fingerstick or heelstick procedures.
4. A patient is on a 1,500 mL fluid restriction for 24 hours. They have already consumed 900 mL by 2 PM. How much fluid may the patient have for the rest of the day?
1,500 mL minus 900 mL consumed equals 600 mL remaining for the rest of the day.
5. The term 'proximal' in anatomical directional terminology means:
Proximal means closer to the point of attachment or origin; for example, the elbow is proximal to the wrist.
6. A patient who is NPO (nothing by mouth) asks the PCT for a glass of water. The PCT should:
NPO orders prohibit all oral intake including water; the PCT should explain this and offer oral hygiene to help with discomfort.