PCT Patient Care Fundamentals 4

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute

Answer

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

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

The patient is resting and not receiving active care

Answer

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

Question 3

Which action by a PCT demonstrates proper body mechanics?

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

1 inch above the antecubital fossa

Answer

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.

PCT Practice Test