Health & Safety Protocols Flashcards
7 cards from real PCA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Health & Safety Protocols flashcards as text
A PCA accidentally drops a prescribed medication on the floor. What is the correct action?
Answer: Discard the pill, document the wastage, and notify the supervisor
A contaminated dropped pill must be discarded; the incident should be documented and the supervisor notified so the prescription can be addressed.
A client tells the PCA that they feel dizzy after taking a new blood pressure medication. What should the PCA do?
Answer: Help the client sit or lie down safely, monitor vital signs if trained, and report the symptom to the supervisor
New medication side effects like dizziness must be reported so the nurse or physician can evaluate whether the prescription needs adjustment.
Which of the following is within the scope of practice for most PCAs regarding medications?
Answer: Reminding a client that it is time to take their self-administered medication
PCAs may provide verbal reminders for self-administered medications but may not administer, adjust, or prepare medications unless specifically trained and authorized.
A client who has latex allergy is scheduled for a bath. Which action is required?
Answer: Use latex-free gloves and ensure all personal care products are latex-free
Clients with latex allergy can react to latex in gloves and personal care products, so latex-free alternatives must be used for all contact.
What is the primary purpose of MSDS/SDS sheets kept in a care setting?
Answer: To provide safety, handling, and emergency information for hazardous substances
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provide critical information on chemical hazards, safe handling, PPE requirements, and emergency response.
A PCA caring for a client with dementia observes the client attempting to eat a non-food item. What is the immediate action?
Answer: Verbally redirect the client and gently remove the item, then report the behavior to the supervisor
Gentle redirection removes the immediate hazard while preserving the client's dignity; the behavior must be reported for care plan revision.
A PCA in a home setting discovers the client has a loaded, unsecured firearm in the same room where care is provided. What should the PCA do?
Answer: Refuse to continue the visit, leave safely, and immediately report the safety concern to the supervisor
An unsecured firearm is a serious safety hazard; PCAs should remove themselves from the unsafe environment and report it to their supervisor for agency follow-up.