Patient Care and Management Flashcards

Which normal adult range is correct for respiratory rate at rest?

Answer: 12–20 breaths per minute

A normal adult resting respiratory rate is about 12–20 breaths per minute.

A patient with a known C. difficile infection is scheduled for treatment. Which precaution is required?

Answer: Contact precautions with gloves, gown, and handwashing with soap and water

C. difficile spores resist alcohol, so contact precautions with soap-and-water handwashing are required.

A diabetic patient becomes sweaty, shaky, and confused while waiting for treatment. The most likely cause is:

Answer: Hypoglycemia

Diaphoresis, tremors, and confusion are classic signs of low blood sugar.

Which approach is most helpful when a patient expresses fear and anxiety at the first treatment?

Answer: Explain each step, show the room, and describe how the patient can communicate during treatment

Clear explanations and a way to reach staff during treatment lower anxiety and help the patient cooperate.

A patient being treated for lung cancer develops a dry cough, low-grade fever, and shortness of breath 2 months after completing radiation. This most likely suggests:

Answer: Radiation pneumonitis

Radiation pneumonitis usually appears 1–6 months after thoracic radiation, with cough, dyspnea, and fever.

Which body mechanics technique is correct for a therapist lifting a patient?

Answer: Keep the back straight, bend the knees, and hold the load close to the body

Using leg muscles with a straight back and the load held close lowers the risk of back injury.

Which finding would most concern a therapist treating a patient with vertebral bone metastases?

Answer: New leg weakness and loss of bladder control

New motor weakness and bladder dysfunction suggest spinal cord compression, an oncologic emergency.