Patient Care Fundamentals Flashcards

Which vital sign change in a post-surgical patient should the PCT report to the nurse FIRST?

Answer: Respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute

A respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute is below normal (12–20) and indicates respiratory depression requiring immediate attention.

A patient's bed must be kept in the lowest position when:

Answer: The patient is resting and not receiving active care

The bed should be in its lowest position whenever the patient is resting or unattended to reduce fall and injury risk.

Which action by a PCT demonstrates proper body mechanics?

Answer: Keeping feet shoulder-width apart and bending at the knees to lift

Bending at the knees with a wide base of support uses leg muscles and protects the PCT's back from injury.

A patient who is NPO (nothing by mouth) asks for water before surgery. The PCT should:

Answer: Explain that NPO means no food or fluids and notify the nurse

NPO means no oral intake of any kind; the PCT should explain the restriction and report the request to the nurse.

When taking a blood pressure reading, the cuff should be placed:

Answer: 1 inch above the antecubital fossa

The blood pressure cuff bladder should be centered over the brachial artery with the lower edge about 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the antecubital fossa.

A patient with dysphagia is being fed. Which sign indicates the PCT should stop feeding and call the nurse?

Answer: The patient coughs repeatedly while swallowing

Repeated coughing during swallowing is a sign of possible aspiration and requires immediate nursing assessment.

The purpose of a draw sheet (lift sheet) when repositioning a patient is to:

Answer: Reduce friction and shear forces on the patient's skin

A draw sheet allows caregivers to move the patient smoothly, reducing skin friction and shear that can cause pressure injuries.