PTC Observation and Patient Monitoring 2

Question 1

A psychiatric technician observes a patient exhibiting pressured speech, decreased need for sleep, and grandiose statements over the past 24 hours. This cluster of symptoms MOST likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Emerging manic episode

Answer

Pressured speech, decreased need for sleep, and grandiosity are hallmark signs of a manic episode and should be reported promptly so the treatment plan can be adjusted.

Question 2

Which vital sign change in a patient taking clozapine (Clozaril) should be reported to the nurse IMMEDIATELY?

Accepted Answer

Heart rate of 105 beats per minute with fever and sore throat

Answer

Tachycardia with fever and sore throat in a patient on clozapine may indicate agranulocytosis, a life-threatening reduction in white blood cells requiring emergency intervention.

Question 3

A psychiatric technician is monitoring a patient in seclusion. The minimum frequency for checking on the patient per Joint Commission standards is:

Accepted Answer

Every 15 minutes

Answer

The Joint Commission requires that patients in seclusion or restraints be monitored at least every 15 minutes for signs of distress, injury, and readiness for discontinuation.

Question 4

When observing a patient for extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), a psychiatric technician should monitor for all of the following EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

Sudden onset of polyuria and polydipsia

Answer

Polyuria and polydipsia (excessive urination and thirst) are not extrapyramidal symptoms; they may indicate diabetes insipidus or lithium toxicity rather than EPS.

Question 5

A patient on elopement precautions is missing from the unit. The FIRST action the psychiatric technician should take is:

Accepted Answer

Notify the charge nurse and initiate the facility's elopement protocol

Answer

Immediate notification of the charge nurse and activation of the elopement protocol ensures a coordinated response that prioritizes patient safety and meets regulatory requirements.

PTC - Psychiatric Technician Certification Practice Test

PTC - Psychiatric Technician Certification Practice Test

PTC Observation and Patient Monitoring 2