Module 1 - CPCT/A Patient Care

A collection of key terms and definitions relevant to Patient Care Techniques. These flashcards include vocabulary focused on weight-bearing statuses, patient transfer methods, skin care, and emergency procedures.

Touch-down weight-bearing

The patient's affected leg can only touch the floor for balance.

Partial weight-bearing

The patient's affected leg can only bear a portion of body weight.

Weight-bearing as tolerated

The patient is able to stand or walk on the affected leg, bearing the amount of body weight only as tolerated.

Full weight-bearing

The patient is able to bear full weight on the affected leg.

Assistive devices

Tools such as walkers, crutches, or canes used to help patients ambulate.

Gait belt

A safety device used to support patients while ambulating.

Non-weight-bearing

A status in which the patient cannot place any weight on the affected leg.

Mechanical lift

Lifting devices used to safely transfer patients who are unable to assist with their own movement.

Transfer board

A board used to assist in transferring patients from one surface to another.

Edema

An accumulation of fluid in a body part, area, or system, which can indicate various medical problems.

Pitting edema

A type of edema where pressing on the swollen area results in an indentation.

Skin integrity

The condition of the skin, important in preventing breakdown and injury.

Pressure ulcer

A localized injury to the skin or underlying tissue, often due to prolonged pressure.

SCD (Sequential Compression Device)

A device used to promote blood flow in the legs, preventing blood clots.

Antiembolism stockings

Elastic stockings that apply pressure to prevent blood clots and fluid buildup.

Incentive spirometer

A device used by patients to encourage deep breathing and lung expansion.

BLS (Basic Life Support)

Emergency treatment provided to someone who is unresponsive or not breathing.

Shock

A medical emergency characterized by insufficient blood flow to the body's organs.

Pain scale

A tool used to measure a patient's level of pain on a numeric or descriptive scale.

Wound infection

An infection characterized by redness, swelling, warmth, and possible drainage from a wound.

Drainage

Fluid or materials that leak from a wound, which can indicate infection.