PCT Safety Procedures 2

Question 1

A patient's IV line has become disconnected and blood is flowing back. What is the FIRST action a PCT should take?

Accepted Answer

Clamp the IV tubing

Answer

Clamping the IV tubing immediately stops blood loss and prevents air embolism until a nurse can properly address the disconnection.

Question 2

Which color-coded sharps container should be used for chemotherapy needles?

Accepted Answer

Purple

Answer

Purple (or yellow with a purple lid) sharps containers are designated for chemotherapy and cytotoxic waste per OSHA and EPA guidelines.

Question 3

A patient on fall precautions needs to use the bathroom. The PCT should:

Accepted Answer

Assist the patient and remain with them throughout

Answer

A PCT must accompany and assist fall-precaution patients during all ambulation, including bathroom trips, to prevent falls.

Question 4

When using a gait belt to assist a patient who begins to fall, the PCT should:

Accepted Answer

Guide the patient to a controlled descent to the floor

Answer

Guiding the patient into a controlled descent prevents injury to both the patient and the PCT, as trying to stop the fall entirely can cause musculoskeletal injury.

Question 5

Which type of fire extinguisher is safe to use on an electrical fire in a patient care area?

Accepted Answer

Type C

Answer

Type C fire extinguishers use non-conductive agents and are specifically rated for electrical fires, making them safe around energized equipment.

PCT Practice Test

PCT Practice Test

PCT Safety Procedures 2