Patient Care Technician (PCT) Practice Test

Introduction

• Presenter: Nurse Unice
• Purpose: Practice test for Patient Care Technician (PCT)
• Audience: Individuals preparing for PCT certification
• Comparison: PCT vs. CNA
  • CNA: Core knowledge for patient care
  • PCT: Advanced level, performs sterile techniques, draws blood, performs EKG

Question and Answer Topics

Blood Glucose Management

1. Scenario: Diabetic patient with blood glucose reading of 55 mg/dL
   • Correct Action: Notify nurse immediately and prepare a carbohydrate source
   • Reason: Blood glucose level of 55 is hypoglycemic, requiring immediate intervention

EKG Electrode Placement

2. Scenario: Hairy chest before placing EKG electrodes
   • Correct Action: Shave the hair where the electrode will be placed
   • Reason: Ensures accurate EKG reading

Artifact on EKG Tracing

3. Possible Causes:
   • Patient movement
   • Incorrect lead placement
   • Electrical interference
   • Correct Answer: All of the above

Vena Puncture

4. First Step: Identify the patient to ensure correct blood draw

Catheterization

5. Scenario: Nurse touches non-sterile surface
   • Correct Action: Notify the nurse and assist in replacing gloves
   • Reason: Prevent infection

Tourniquet Use

6. Duration: Should not be left on longer than 1 minute
   • Reason: Prevents hemoconcentration

Documentation

7. Issue: Late documentation of abnormal vital signs
   • Consequence: Delayed intervention and potential harm

IV Insertion

8. Scope of Practice: Outside of PCT duties; respond by explaining it is not within scope

Tracheostomy

9. Primary Purpose: Maintain an open airway

IV Complications

10. Red, Swollen IV Site: Likely phlebitis
    • Action: Notify nurse

CHF Patient Management

11. Symptoms: Sudden weight gain, shortness of breath
    • Correct Action: Assist patient into a high Fowler's position

Tracheostomy Humidification

12. Purpose: Prevents drying of the airway

Dislodged Tracheostomy Tube

13. Action: Call for immediate medical assistance

Gastric Tube Usage

14. Common Reasons: Administer medications, provide nutrition, relieve gastric distension
    • Correct Answer: All of the above

Chest Pain Management

15. Scenario: Patient with chest pain, pale and clammy
    • Correct Action: Provide emotional reassurance and ensure patient remains still

Urinary Catheter Issues

16. Non-Draining Catheter: Check for kinks and reposition

Dementia Patient Agitation

17. Action: Redirect patient to a quieter area and speak calmly

Emergency Situations

18. Scenario: Nurse busy with one emergency, another patient calls with chest pain
    • Correct Action: Inform another staff member about the situation

Respiratory Distress in Tracheostomy Patient

19. Action: Call for immediate medical assistance

Excessive Bleeding During Phlebotomy

20. Action: Apply direct pressure to the site

Gastric Tube Care

21. Critical Aspects: Infection signs, tube security, proper placement
    • Correct Answer: All of the above

Fainting During Phlebotomy

22. Action: Stop procedure and call for help

Surgical Drain Management

23. Ambulation: Secure tubing before assisting
24. Color Change in Drainage: Notify nurse immediately

Expanded JP Drain Bulb

25. Action: Empty, measure, and reapply suction

Conclusion

• PCT classes are available online with externships
• Encouragement for continued study and preparation
• Congratulations to those who passed their exams

Additional Information

• Contact for PCT classes: 877-225-7151
• Encouragement to find and share personal purpose