FREE PCT Patient Safety, Falls, and Restraints Questions and Answers

Question 1

A PCT enters a patient's room and finds them on the floor. What is the first action the PCT should take?

Accepted Answer

Assess the patient for injuries

Answer

The first priority after a patient fall is to assess the patient for any injuries and check their vital signs. Before moving the patient, it is crucial to determine their condition to prevent further harm. Calling for help from a nurse is the immediate next step after the initial assessment.

Question 2

Which of the following is a key fall prevention measure that a PCT should implement for all patients?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring the call light and personal items are within reach

Answer

Keeping the patient's personal belongings, such as the call light, phone, and water, within easy reach is a universal fall prevention strategy. This reduces the need for the patient to get out of bed or stretch unsafely, which can lead to falls.

Question 3

When applying a wrist restraint, the PCT should ensure that:

Accepted Answer

Two fingers can fit between the restraint and the patient's wrist

Answer

Restraints must be applied correctly to prevent injury. The PCT should be able to insert two fingers between the restraint and the patient's skin to ensure it is not too tight, which could compromise circulation or cause skin breakdown.

Question 4

A patient is in physical restraints. How often should the PCT check on the patient, including assessing circulation and skin integrity?

Accepted Answer

Every 2 hours

Answer

Facility policies typically require checking on a patient in restraints at least every 2 hours, and often more frequently. These checks involve assessing circulation, skin integrity, and the patient's basic needs (toileting, hydration) and ensuring the restraint is still necessary and correctly applied.

Question 5

Which patient is at the highest risk for falls?

Accepted Answer

A 75-year-old patient who is confused and has a history of falls

Answer

Multiple factors increase fall risk. A patient who is confused and has a history of previous falls is at a very high risk. Confusion impairs judgment, and a history of falls is one of the strongest predictors of future falls.

Patient Care Technician Test Practice Test

Patient Care Technician Test Practice Test

FREE PCT Patient Safety, Falls, and Restraints Questions and Answers