Patient Care Fundamentals Flashcards

When transferring a patient from bed to wheelchair, which action should the PCT perform FIRST?

Answer: Lock the wheelchair brakes

Locking the wheelchair brakes before transfer prevents the chair from rolling and ensures patient safety.

A patient's oral temperature reads 99.2°F (37.3°C). This is best classified as:

Answer: Low-grade fever

A temperature between 99°F and 100.4°F (37.2–38°C) is considered a low-grade fever in adults.

Which position is most appropriate for a patient who is experiencing difficulty breathing?

Answer: Fowler's

Fowler's position (head of bed elevated 45–90°) promotes lung expansion and eases breathing.

The PCT notices a patient's IV site is swollen, cool, and pale. This assessment is consistent with:

Answer: Infiltration

Infiltration occurs when IV fluid leaks into surrounding tissue, causing swelling, coolness, and pallor at the site.

A patient on a 1,500 mL fluid restriction asks for extra juice. The PCT should:

Answer: Explain the restriction and offer a small amount within the allowed limit

The PCT should educate the patient about the restriction while working within the physician's orders to meet patient needs.

When applying anti-embolism stockings, the PCT should:

Answer: Measure the leg and apply them before the patient gets out of bed

Anti-embolism stockings are most effective when applied in the morning before getting up, using proper measurements to ensure correct fit.

Which observation must be reported to the nurse immediately?

Answer: A patient's urine output drops to 20 mL over the past hour

Urine output below 30 mL/hour indicates possible renal compromise or poor perfusion and requires immediate nursing evaluation.