PCT Review

What is a Sequential Compression Device (SCD)?

A device that should allow 2 fingers to fit between the sleeve and the patient’s skin.

What is the purpose of an immobility splint?

To stabilize an extremity after injury or surgery.

What is an ostomy?

A surgical opening from the intestines to the outside of the body used to facilitate bowel movement.

How much larger should an ostomy opening be cut before fitting it into place?

1/16 inch larger than the circumference of the stoma.

When should ostomy pouches be emptied?

When they are half full.

What hygiene practice should be performed before emptying an ostomy pouch?

Perform hand hygiene.

What area of the pouch should be wiped during ostomy care?

The lower 2 inches of the pouch.

What is the first step in the ostomy care process?

Hold skin taut and peel off the ostomy appliance from the top.

What should you do to clean the stoma during ostomy care?

Fill a bedpan with warm water (40.5-43.3°C) and clean the stoma.

What are the signs of wound infection?

Warmth around the wound, foul odor, and drainage.

What indicates purulent drainage?

The presence of pus.

Who prescribes the flow rate and method of delivery for oxygen therapy?

Only the provider.

What should be done if a patient is receiving oxygen at a flow rate greater than 4L/min?

Attach the flow meter to a humidifier.

What are some symptoms of hypoxia?

Anxiety, lack of concentration or focus, and fatigue.

What position should the head of the bed be raised to for suctioning?

45 degrees.

How long should suctioning be performed at a time for patients with a tracheostomy?

No longer than 10 seconds.

What does TCDB stand for in patient care?

Turning, coughing, and deep breathing.

How frequently should patients cough and take deep breaths while awake?

At least every 1 to 2 hours.

What should patients do to reduce pain while coughing after abdominal surgery?

Splat the incision area by holding a pillow against it.

What is edema?

An accumulation of fluid in a body part.

What is emesis?

Vomiting.

What is a glucometer used for?

To monitor blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes.

What are critical blood glucose levels for females?

Less than 40mg and more than 450mg.

What are critical blood glucose levels for males?

Less than 50mg and more than 450mg.

What is the radial pulse?

The pulse located on the thumb side of the wrist.

What is the brachial pulse?

The pulse located on the inside of the upper arm.

Where is the carotid pulse located?

In the neck below the jawbone.

How often should patients be repositioned?

Every 2 hours.

What do lifting devices do for patients?

Reduce friction.

What can shearing force result from?

The head of the bed being elevated and the patient sliding down.

What should be used to clean the skin in patient care?

Barrier ointment.

What does HIPAA stand for?

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, which governs the handling of protected health information.

What are EMRs?

Electronic Medical Records used for efficient and accessible patient information management.

What do Joint Commission and ISMP promote?

Quality and safety of healthcare.

What does asepsis mean?

A clean technique.

What is a pathogen?

A disease-causing microorganism.

What is a reservoir in the context of infection?

The patient with the disease.

What is the portal of exit for a pathogen?

The passageway for the pathogen, such as infected body fluids.

What is meant by mode of transmission?

The method by which an infection is spread, such as contact.

What is the portal of entry for pathogens?

The points of entry into the body, such as the mouth, nose, or eyes.

What is a susceptible host?

A person who has the presence of the microorganism.

What should be used to disinfect blood-culture collection sites?

70% isopropyl alcohol.

What is the first step when preparing for a venipuncture?

Palpitate the vein.

What is junctional tachycardia characterized by?

A spike followed by a bump on an EKG.

What does ventricular tachycardia look like on an EKG?

A small spike with a bump.

What is the standard EKG speed for recording?

25 mm/second.

What color cap is used for blood culture collection?

Light blue.

Where is the preferred site for venipuncture in patients with an amputated arm?

The left deltoid.

What is the semi-fowler's position?

A position where the patient is at a 45-degree angle.