Mixed Deck — All PCT Topics Flashcards

The correct cuff size for measuring blood pressure is determined by:

Answer: The circumference of the upper arm—the bladder should cover 80% of the arm

The cuff bladder must encircle approximately 80% of the upper arm circumference for accurate readings—too small reads high, too large reads low.

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

Answer: Assess the patient for injuries

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.

A patient's oxygen saturation (SpO2) reading of 88% indicates:

Answer: Significant hypoxemia that should be reported immediately

An SpO2 of 88% is below the normal threshold of 95% and indicates significant hypoxemia requiring immediate nursing notification.

When instructing a female patient on how to collect a clean-catch midstream urine specimen, the PCT should tell her to:

Answer: Begin urinating into the toilet, then collect the specimen

A clean-catch midstream specimen requires careful technique to prevent contamination. The patient should first clean the perineal area, then begin urinating into the toilet, stop the stream, collect the specimen in the cup, and finally finish urinating in the toilet. This ensures the sample is from the middle of the urine stream, which is least likely to be contaminated.

What is the purpose of applying sterile dressings to surgical wounds?

Answer: To protect the wound and prevent infection

Sterile dressings act as a physical barrier, shielding the surgical wound from external contaminants like bacteria and dirt. They also absorb exudate, maintain a moist healing environment, and reduce the risk of infection, which is vital for proper wound closure and recovery. Their purpose is not decorative or to prevent scarring, but rather protective and preventative.

Which device delivers low-flow oxygen to patients?

Answer: Nasal cannula

A nasal cannula is a common, comfortable device used to deliver low concentrations of oxygen, typically for patients requiring 1-6 liters per minute. It consists of two prongs that fit into the nostrils, making it suitable for patients who can breathe on their own but need supplemental oxygen. Other options like ventilators and CPAP machines deliver higher flows or positive pressure, while a nebulizer delivers medication.

Contact precautions require the PCT to wear which PPE upon entering the patient's room?

Answer: Gown and gloves

Contact precautions require a gown and gloves to prevent transmission of organisms spread by direct or indirect contact with the patient or their environment.

A competent adult patient refuses a recommended treatment. The PCT should:

Answer: Respect the patient's right to refuse and document the refusal

Competent adults have the legal right to refuse any treatment, and healthcare workers must respect that decision while ensuring proper documentation.

A PCT needs to collect a sputum specimen for culture. The patient is having difficulty producing a sample. The PCT should instruct the patient to:

Answer: Take a few deep breaths and then cough deeply

To obtain a good sputum sample, the patient must cough deeply from the lungs, not just clear their throat. Taking several deep breaths first can help mobilize secretions and trigger a productive cough to bring up sputum from deep within the respiratory tract.

Which task is appropriate for a PCT assisting in a hospital setting?

Answer: Measuring patient vital signs and documenting results

Measuring patient vital signs, such as temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure, is a fundamental task for a PCT in a hospital setting. Accurate documentation of these results is equally important, as it provides critical information for nurses and physicians to assess a patient's condition, monitor changes, and make informed decisions about their care plan.

Which organ is responsible for filtering blood and producing urine?

Answer: Kidney

The kidneys filter approximately 180 liters of blood daily, removing waste products and excess fluid to produce urine.

Typically, a tube with a green stopper contains

Answer: Thrombin

Tubes with a green stopper typically contain heparin (sodium, lithium, or ammonium heparin) as an anticoagulant. Heparin works by inhibiting thrombin, thereby preventing the formation of a fibrin clot. These tubes are commonly used for plasma determinations in chemistry tests, as they yield plasma rather than serum.

A patient identified as a high fall risk should have which intervention in place?

Answer: Bed in the lowest position with call light within reach

A low bed position reduces injury from falls, and an accessible call light allows the patient to request assistance before attempting to get up.

A PCT discovers a coworker posting patient photos on social media. What action should be taken?

Answer: Report the violation to a supervisor immediately

Posting patient photos on social media is a serious HIPAA violation that must be reported to a supervisor for proper handling.

Why is informed consent important in phlebotomy?

Answer: To ensure patient agrees and understands the procedure

Informed consent in phlebotomy means ensuring the patient understands the procedure, its purpose, potential risks, and has voluntarily agreed to it. This respects patient autonomy and is a legal and ethical requirement, confirming they are aware of what will happen and have given permission for the blood draw.

What is the proper way to measure a patient’s respiratory rate?

Answer: By counting breaths for one minute

The proper way to measure a patient's respiratory rate is by silently counting their breaths for one full minute while they are at rest. It's important to do this discreetly, often immediately after taking a pulse, so the patient is unaware and does not consciously alter their breathing pattern. This method provides an accurate assessment of their natural respiratory function.

A PCT notes an EKG rhythm that is 'irregularly irregular' with no clear P waves. This is most characteristic of which arrhythmia?

Answer: Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial Fibrillation (A-Fib) is defined by its chaotic and irregular atrial activity, which results in an irregularly irregular ventricular response. On an EKG, this appears as a wavy baseline with no discernible P waves and an irregular R-R interval.

Side rails on a patient's bed are considered a restraint when:

Answer: All four rails are raised, preventing the patient from voluntarily leaving the bed

When all side rails are raised and restrict the patient's ability to freely exit the bed, they function as a restraint and require the same considerations and documentation.

Which technique is recommended to remove old wound dressings?

Answer: Moisten if necessary and remove gently

Gently moistening a stuck dressing helps loosen it from the wound bed, preventing trauma to delicate new tissue that is forming. Removing dressings gently minimizes pain and avoids disrupting the healing process, which could lead to further injury, bleeding, or delayed recovery. Pulling quickly or using force can cause significant damage and discomfort.

What action should be taken if a hematoma forms?

Answer: Apply pressure and stop the draw

If a hematoma (a bruise caused by blood leaking out of the vein) begins to form during venipuncture, the phlebotomist should immediately stop the blood draw and apply firm pressure to the site. This helps to minimize the size of the hematoma and reduce patient discomfort. Continuing the draw would worsen the condition.