Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) Certification Study Guide Focused Review

Oxygen Equipment

  • After surgery, some patients require supplemental oxygen; patients with respiratory disorders may need oxygen in the hospital and at home.
    • Familiarize with monitoring equipment and report changes to licensed providers and nurses, as only they can prescribe the flow rate and method of delivery.
  • Oxygen delivery methods:
    • Wall-mounted systems with valves and flow meters in hospital settings
    • Portable oxygen tanks for ambulatory patients
    • Typically delivered via nasal cannula or face mask (based on patient needs).

Safety Guidelines for Oxygen Use

  • Ensure proper signage is present (e.g., "Oxygen in Use", "No Smoking").
  • Avoid electrical equipment that could cause sparks.
  • Maintain safe distances from heat sources for oxygen equipment.
  • Ensure tubing is kink-free and that it does not pose tripping hazards.
  • Know the location of fire extinguishers in the facility.

Administering Oxygen

  • Gather necessary supplies based on oxygen delivery method (nasal cannula or face mask).
  • Verify the provider's order for oxygen delivery.
  • For a nasal cannula:
    • Place prongs in nostrils, loop tubing over ears, adjust comfortably.
  • For face masks:
    • Position mask over nose and mouth, secure straps, and adjust comfortably.
  • Monitor equipment efficacy and ensure humidification for high flow rates (>4 L/min).

Complications

  • Dryness in nasal cavity and mouth; remedies include humidifiers and lubricants.
  • Monitor for signs of hypoxia:
    • Symptoms include anxiety, lack of concentration, cyanosis, dyspnea, and variations in heart and respiratory rate.
    • Notify nurse for pulse oximetry < 90%, discrepancies in oxygen flow rates, or any sudden patient condition changes.

Suction Equipment

  • Patients may require suctioning to maintain airway from mucus, blood, or secretions.
  • Types of suctioning:
    • Oropharyngeal suctioning (mouth and throat)
    • Tracheostomy suctioning
  • Always explain the procedure to patients and gather appropriate supplies beforehand.
  • Monitor and report any changes in patient status to nursing staff.

Monitors and Alarms

  • Common monitoring devices:
    • Cardiac monitors, ventilators, capnography monitors, pulse oximeters, infusion pumps.
  • Monitor settings; alarms signal when values deviate from expected ranges.

Hospital Beds

  • Adjustable for patient comfort and safety; side rails prevent falls.
  • Understand special beds for patients needing specific care: bariatric, alternating pressure, and airflow beds.

Emotional Support

  • Build trust and relationships with patients and families through active listening, respect, and professionalism.
  • Techniques include:
    • Accepting, clarifying, encouraging communication, and summarizing.
    • Avoid negative communication (advising, judging, minimizing feelings).

First Aid and CPR

  • Know basic life support (BLS) and perform first aid when necessary.
  • Key steps include providing CPR and recognizing signs of choking, respiratory distress, or shock.
    • Perform CPR immediately if unresponsive; use an AED if available.

Patient Care Responsibilities

  • Tasks include measuring vital signs, assisting with daily activities (ADLs), dressing changes, and postmortem care.
  • Safety protocols are critical; monitor signs indicating the need for emergency assistance.

Infection Control

  • Understanding the chain of infection and breaking it through precautions:
    • Standard precautions adopted in all patient interactions.
  • Use PPE as needed, maintain hand hygiene, and follow safety data guidelines.