Skin Care
The skin is the body's first line of defense. T/F
True
What are some ambulatory assistive devices?
canes, walker, crutches
Describe the steps of CPR
1. Scan scene for safety and prompt patient response
2. Check for pulse and respiration
3. Call for AED and begin compressions until help arrives
Will you be solely responsible for applying, removing, and replacing dressings?
No
Can a PCT apply medical ointments?
NO
When performing a bath, do you clean from the dirtiest to cleanest parts of the patient?
No, cleanest to dirtiest
Examples of ways to help prevent patient falls while ambulating?
Ensure the patient is wearing nonskid socks
Check for slippery surfaces ahead
Make sure patient has their glasses on before walking
Identify the signs and symptoms of shock
Rapid pulse, shallow breathing, blank stare, cold/clammy pale skin
When replacing dressings, where do you place the soiled dressing?
biohazard bag
Can a PCT remove IVs, insert catheters, or both?
Remove IVs only
What should be the number one concern when dealing with skin burns?
Water loss
What should you check the patient for before assisting them with moving?
Check if they feel dizzy or light-headed
What are normal vital sign values to check for O2, BP, BPM, and RR?
SPO2 = 90-100%
BP = 120/80
BPM = 60-100
RR = 12-20
What should you do while a patient is doing turning, coughing, and breathing exercises after abdominal surgery.
Place a pillow on their abdomen and support the incision site
A PCT can perform sterile technique and procedures. T/F
False, PCTs are limited to sterile technique.
Examples of patients of high risk for skin breakdown
Bed-bound patients, patients suffering from incontinence, elderly patients, etc.
How far in inches should a patient move a walker in front of them?
10 in - 12 in
What are the symptoms of diabetes?
Polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, etc.
How often should you remove/change compression sleeves?
8 hours
With experience, a PCT can temporarily train a new PCT. T/F
False
Describe what each stage of a pressure ulcer looks like
Stage 1: Skin that does not blanch
Stage 2: Opened or ruptured blister-like appearance
Stage 3: Loss of tissue; subcutaneous fat might be visible but bone, tendon, or muscle is not exposed
Stage 4: Sore extends past subcutaneous tissue; damages muscle and deeper beyond
What are the gait patterns for a non weight-bearing patient?
Swing-to and swing-through
What is the best way to respond if a patient has syncope?
Cushion their fall, lie them down on the floor, stay with them, call for help
What type of diet should patients with mastication difficulty have?
Mechanical soft
Give 6 examples of tasks within a PCT's scope of practice.
Blood sugar checks
Measure vital signs
Label specimens
Assists with ADLS
Draw blood samples for lab work
Remove IV
Check on patients
Help with a dressing change
Perform EKGs
Help open medication