1.
As a Personal Care Assistant, it is your responsibility to:
Correct Answer
B. Do only the tasks that the registered nurse or therapist assigns to you.
Explanation
As a Personal Care Assistant, it is important to follow the instructions and tasks assigned by the registered nurse or therapist. This ensures that the care provided to the client is consistent and follows the professional guidelines set by the healthcare team. It is not advisable to take on tasks that are not assigned to you, as it may compromise the client's safety and well-being. Collaborating and comparing assignments with co-workers can be helpful for coordination and ensuring all tasks are completed, but ultimately, following the instructions of the registered nurse or therapist is the primary responsibility.
2.
True or False. Always tell the patient what you are going to do before starting a procedure.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
It is important to always inform the patient about the procedures that will be performed before starting them. This helps to establish trust between the patient and healthcare provider, ensures that the patient is fully informed and can give their consent, and reduces anxiety or fear that the patient may have. Additionally, informing the patient about the procedure allows them to ask any questions or voice any concerns they may have, leading to better communication and overall patient satisfaction.
3.
Body language is:
Correct Answer
A. A way of communicating feelings by using the body, facial expression and the eyes.
Explanation
Body language is a form of nonverbal communication that involves using gestures, facial expressions, and eye movements to convey emotions, thoughts, and intentions. It is a powerful tool for expressing feelings and can often reveal more about a person's true emotions than their words alone. Body language is not limited to any specific group or situation, but rather it is a universal means of communication that is used by everyone, regardless of their ability to speak or hear. It is not related to any specific dance trend or limited to client-doctor interactions.
4.
PCA care for a conscious patient should be preceded by:
Correct Answer
C. Giving an explanation of what is going to be done
Explanation
Before performing PCA care on a conscious patient, it is important to give an explanation of what is going to be done. This ensures that the patient understands the procedure and gives their informed consent. It allows the patient to be aware of what to expect and can help alleviate any anxiety or fear they may have. Providing an explanation also promotes patient autonomy and involvement in their own care, fostering a collaborative and respectful healthcare environment.
5.
A patient accuses a Personal
Care Assistant of stealing five dollars. The PCA has not taken the patient’s money, but the patient
does not believe this. What should the PCA do?
Correct Answer
D. Notify the agency supervisor
Explanation
The PCA should notify the agency supervisor about the accusation made by the patient. This is the most appropriate action to take in order to address the situation and ensure that it is handled properly. The supervisor can then investigate the matter further and take appropriate steps to resolve the issue.
6.
True or False. If you do not chart a task that you do for a
patient, legally, it was not done.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Charting is a crucial part of the healthcare documentation process. It serves as evidence that a task or procedure was performed, and it helps to ensure accurate and comprehensive patient care. Legally, if a task is not charted, there is no official record of it being done, which can have serious consequences in terms of accountability and liability. Therefore, it is true that if a task is not charted, it is legally considered as not being done.
7.
True or False. If the patient has a new area
of skin breakdown, and the nurse is coming in two days, you do not need to report the skin breakdown
to your supervisor.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
It is important to report any new area of skin breakdown to the supervisor, regardless of when the nurse is scheduled to come. Skin breakdown can indicate a worsening condition or the need for additional interventions, and it is the responsibility of the nurse to ensure proper care and documentation of any changes in the patient's condition. Failing to report the skin breakdown could lead to complications and potential harm to the patient.
8.
True or False. A rapid pulse and shortness of breath in a patient usually indicates the patient is excited and does not need to be reported to the nurse.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
A rapid pulse and shortness of breath in a patient are symptoms that typically indicate a medical problem or distress, rather than excitement. These symptoms could be signs of a serious condition such as an underlying heart or lung issue. Therefore, it is important to report these symptoms to the nurse for further evaluation and appropriate medical intervention.
9.
The patient tells you he has not moved his
bowels in three days. What should you do?
Correct Answer
C. Report it to the nursing supervisor
Explanation
The correct answer is to report it to the nursing supervisor. This is because not moving bowels for three days could indicate a potential health issue or constipation, which should be addressed by a healthcare professional. Reporting it to the nursing supervisor ensures that the patient's condition is properly evaluated and appropriate actions are taken to address the situation.
10.
Which of these actions is the
Personal Care Assistant permitted to take in relation to drug administration?
Correct Answer
A. Record and report the patient’s reaction to the medication
Explanation
The Personal Care Assistant is permitted to record and report the patient's reaction to the medication. This is an important responsibility as it allows healthcare professionals to monitor the effectiveness and potential side effects of the medication. By documenting and reporting any adverse reactions or changes in the patient's condition, appropriate action can be taken to ensure their safety and well-being.
11.
When a patient complains of pain, what should
the Personal Care Assistant do first?
Correct Answer
A. Ask the patient to describe the pain
Explanation
The first thing a Personal Care Assistant should do when a patient complains of pain is to ask the patient to describe the pain. This is important because it helps the assistant understand the nature, intensity, and location of the pain, which can provide valuable information for further assessment and appropriate action. Asking the patient to describe the pain also shows empathy and attentiveness towards the patient's concerns.
12.
True or False. Always report a pulse if the beats per minute
are under 60 or over 100.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
A pulse rate below 60 or above 100 beats per minute can be an indication of an abnormal heart rate. It is important to report such pulse rates to a healthcare professional for further evaluation and potential treatment. Therefore, the statement "Always report a pulse if the beats per minute are under 60 or over 100" is true.
13.
True or False. Recording a patient’s TPR or vital signs is not important as long as you remember what they are.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Recording a patient's TPR (temperature, pulse, and respiration) or vital signs is important regardless of whether or not one remembers them. These measurements provide crucial information about the patient's overall health and can help identify any potential abnormalities or changes in their condition. By recording and documenting these vital signs, healthcare professionals can track the patient's progress, monitor any trends or patterns, and make informed decisions regarding their treatment and care. Neglecting to record vital signs can lead to a lack of comprehensive patient assessment and potentially compromise their health and well-being.
14.
For which, if any, of these body areas is 99.6
degrees F. a normal temperature?
Correct Answer
C. Rectum
Explanation
The rectum is the correct answer because it is one of the body areas where a temperature of 99.6 degrees F is considered normal. The axilla (armpit) and mouth are generally lower in temperature, while "none of the above" indicates that none of the body areas listed have a normal temperature of 99.6 degrees F.
15.
When taking a patient pulse,
you should take it for:
Correct Answer
B. One full minute
Explanation
When taking a patient's pulse, it is recommended to take it for one full minute. This duration allows for a more accurate measurement of the patient's heart rate. Taking the pulse for a shorter period, such as 5 or 15 seconds, may not provide a representative measurement of the patient's overall heart rate. Similarly, taking it for two minutes may be unnecessarily long and time-consuming. Therefore, taking the pulse for one full minute is the most appropriate and commonly accepted practice.
16.
When a patient’s respirations are being counted,
it is best that the patient:
Correct Answer
D. Not be aware that the respirations are being counted
Explanation
When a patient is not aware that their respirations are being counted, they are more likely to breathe naturally and not alter their breathing pattern. This allows for a more accurate measurement of their normal breathing rate. If the patient tries to breathe evenly or as deeply as they can, it may affect the natural rhythm of their breathing and result in an inaccurate count. Similarly, sitting up straight may also alter their breathing pattern. Therefore, it is best for the patient to be unaware of the respirations being counted to obtain an accurate measurement.
17.
True or False. Hand washing is the single best way to decrease
the number of pathogens.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Hand washing is the single best way to decrease the number of pathogens because it helps to remove and kill the germs that can cause infections. Proper hand hygiene, including using soap and water or hand sanitizer, can effectively remove pathogens from the hands, reducing the risk of spreading them to others or transferring them to surfaces. Regular hand washing is especially important before eating, after using the restroom, and when caring for someone who is sick.
18.
True or False. Gloves should be worn when handling items soiled by body fluids.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Gloves should be worn when handling items soiled by body fluids to prevent the spread of infection and protect the person handling the items. Body fluids can contain pathogens that can be transmitted through contact, so wearing gloves acts as a barrier and reduces the risk of contamination and infection. It is a standard practice in healthcare settings to wear gloves when dealing with body fluids.
19.
True or False. The catheter drainage bag must be lower than the bladder, but not on the floor.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The correct answer is true because when the catheter drainage bag is positioned lower than the bladder, it allows gravity to assist in the flow of urine from the bladder into the bag. This helps to prevent reflux of urine back into the bladder, which could lead to urinary tract infections. However, placing the bag on the floor is not recommended as it can increase the risk of contamination and infection.
20.
During a visit, you need to wash your hands after removing gloves:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
It is important to wash your hands after removing gloves for infection control purposes. Before giving physical care to the patient, it is necessary to wash your hands to prevent the spread of any potential pathogens. After petting the dog, it is important to wash your hands as animals can carry germs that can be harmful to humans. Before leaving the patient's home, it is crucial to wash your hands to ensure that you do not carry any potential pathogens from the patient's home to other environments. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above."
21.
In what situation should gloves be used
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
Gloves should be used in all of the given situations. When a patient is vomiting, gloves protect the healthcare provider from coming into direct contact with the vomit, reducing the risk of infection. Similarly, when a patient has been incontinent of stool, gloves prevent the spread of bacteria and contamination. In the case of a drainage wound, gloves are necessary to maintain a sterile environment and prevent the transmission of any pathogens. Therefore, in all these situations, gloves should be used to ensure the safety and hygiene of both the patient and the healthcare provider.
22.
True or False. Diarrhea can cause dehydration and other serious complications and should be reported.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Diarrhea can cause dehydration because it leads to excessive loss of fluids and electrolytes from the body. This can result in imbalances in the body's water and electrolyte levels, which are essential for proper functioning of organs and bodily processes. If left untreated, severe dehydration can lead to serious complications such as organ failure. Therefore, it is important to report diarrhea to seek appropriate medical attention and prevent further complications.
23.
True or False. If a person complains of pain, it is important to have the patient describe the pain and then report it to the nurse and record it in your notes.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
When a person complains of pain, it is crucial to have them describe the pain accurately as it can provide valuable information about the nature and intensity of the pain. This information is essential for effective medical assessment and treatment. Reporting the pain to the nurse ensures that appropriate actions can be taken to alleviate the pain and provide necessary care. Recording the pain in notes helps in maintaining a comprehensive medical history and tracking the progress of the patient's condition. Therefore, it is important to both describe the pain to the nurse and record it in the notes.
24.
True or False. It's normal for most people to complain of pressure, swelling, or bloating in their ankles, feet, stomach or legs.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
It is not normal for most people to complain of pressure, swelling, or bloating in their ankles, feet, stomach, or legs. These symptoms can be indicative of various health conditions such as edema, venous insufficiency, or heart failure. While some individuals may experience occasional swelling due to factors like heat or prolonged standing, persistent or severe symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
25.
If you notice the patient’s catheter is not
draining, the first thing you should do is:
Correct Answer
C. Check the tubing to see if it is kinked
Explanation
If the patient's catheter is not draining, the first thing you should do is check the tubing to see if it is kinked. Kinking of the tubing can obstruct the flow of urine and prevent it from draining properly. By checking the tubing, you can identify if there is any kink and then take appropriate actions to straighten it out or adjust the position of the tubing to ensure proper drainage. This is a practical and immediate step that can be taken by the person noticing the issue before escalating it to a supervisor or assuming it is solely the nurse's responsibility.
26.
Which of the following is not
recommended for promoting good daily habits?
Correct Answer
B. Laxatives
Explanation
Laxatives are not recommended for promoting good daily habits because they are typically used to treat constipation or irregular bowel movements, rather than being a regular part of a healthy routine. While plenty of water, exercise, and well-balanced meals are all important for maintaining good daily habits, the use of laxatives should be limited to specific medical needs and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
27.
Mrs. Morris has not had a bowel movement for three days. She has always given herself an enema if she does not have a bowel movement for that length of time. Mrs. Morris asks the Personal Care Assistant to give her an enema. What should the PCA do?
Correct Answer
D. Contact the agency supervisor to discuss the situation
Explanation
Given the information provided, the correct answer is to contact the agency supervisor to discuss the situation. As a Personal Care Assistant, it is important to follow proper protocols and seek guidance from a supervisor when faced with a situation that may require a medical intervention or decision. In this case, Mrs. Morris has a history of giving herself an enema in this situation, but it is essential to consult with a supervisor to ensure that the appropriate course of action is taken.
28.
True or False. Smoking in bed is fine for anyone who is not confused.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Smoking in bed is not fine for anyone, regardless of whether they are confused or not. Smoking in bed can be extremely dangerous as it increases the risk of starting a fire, especially if the person falls asleep with a lit cigarette. This can lead to severe injuries or even death. It is important to always practice fire safety and avoid smoking in bed.
29.
Part or your duties as a
Personal Care Assistant are to assure a safe home environment. This includes:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
As a Personal Care Assistant, it is important to ensure a safe home environment for the patient. This includes practicing proper infection control by maintaining good hand washing techniques. It also involves being aware of electrical and fire safety measures to prevent accidents. Additionally, the assistant should be proactive in moving objects that may pose a risk of causing the patient to fall. Therefore, all of the options mentioned are part of the duties of a Personal Care Assistant to assure a safe home environment.
30.
True or False. For an injury with profuse bleeding, apply pressure and call for assistance.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In case of an injury with profuse bleeding, it is important to apply pressure to the wound to control the bleeding. Applying pressure helps to restrict the blood flow and reduce the risk of further complications. Additionally, calling for assistance is necessary as the injured person may require immediate medical attention or professional help to handle the situation effectively. Therefore, the correct answer is true.
31.
True or False. If the patient begins to have a seizure, your first responsibility is to prevent the patient from injuring himself.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In the event that a patient starts having a seizure, the first responsibility is indeed to prevent the patient from injuring themselves. Seizures can cause involuntary movements and loss of control, which can result in the patient hitting objects or falling. By ensuring their safety and removing any potential hazards, we can minimize the risk of injury during a seizure.
32.
True or False. If the patient falls and complains of pain in his hip, you should help him to get up and walk to bed.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
If a patient falls and complains of pain in his hip, it is not advisable to help him get up and walk to bed. This could potentially worsen the injury or cause further harm. It is important to assess the situation and call for medical assistance if necessary. Moving the patient without proper evaluation could lead to more serious complications. Therefore, the correct answer is False.
33.
A patient is choking on some object that is caught in his airway. Before first-aid measures are applied, find out:
Correct Answer
C. If the patient can speak or cough
Explanation
If the patient can speak or cough, it indicates that their airway is partially open and they are able to breathe to some extent. This suggests that the obstruction may not be completely blocking the airway and the patient may still be able to get some air in and out. It is important to assess the patient's ability to speak or cough as it can help determine the severity of the choking episode and guide the appropriate first-aid measures to be taken.
34.
While giving a bath on a shower chair, the patient suddenly gasps and becomes unresponsive. The Personal Care Assistant should:
Correct Answer
C. Lower the patient to the floor, call for the family to call 911, determine it CPR is needed, and initiate it if needed
Explanation
The correct answer is to lower the patient to the floor, call for the family to call 911, determine if CPR is needed, and initiate it if needed. This is the most appropriate action to take in an emergency situation where the patient becomes unresponsive. Lowering the patient to the floor ensures their safety and allows for easier access in case CPR is required. Calling for the family to call 911 ensures that emergency medical services are notified promptly. Assessing if CPR is needed and initiating it if necessary can potentially save the patient's life.
35.
For which of these
emergencies is the knowledge of pressure points essential:
Correct Answer
D. Bleeding
Explanation
Knowledge of pressure points is essential for emergencies involving bleeding. Pressure points are specific areas on the body where pressure can be applied to control bleeding. Applying pressure to these points can help slow down or stop the flow of blood, providing temporary relief until medical help arrives. This knowledge is crucial in situations where there is significant bleeding, as it can help prevent excessive blood loss and potentially save lives.
36.
The telephone numbers of all
the following are important to a patient. Which number must the Personal Care Assistant have
next to the phone?
Correct Answer
C. The emergency medical squad
Explanation
The personal care assistant must have the number of the emergency medical squad next to the phone because in case of any medical emergency, they would need to quickly contact the medical professionals who can provide immediate assistance. The numbers of the patient's clergyman, drugstore, and next-door neighbor may also be important, but in terms of priority, the emergency medical squad takes precedence.
37.
True or False. Every patient is the same and has the same needs and wants.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
False. Every patient is unique and has different needs and wants. Each individual has their own medical history, preferences, and circumstances that require personalized care and treatment. It is important for healthcare professionals to take into account these individual differences and tailor their approach accordingly to provide the best possible care for each patient.
38.
True or False. It is alright to use any
item in the home without asking as long as it is for the patient’s personal care.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
It is not alright to use any item in the home without asking, even if it is for the patient's personal care. Respecting the privacy and personal belongings of others is important, and it is always better to ask for permission before using someone else's items, regardless of the reason.
39.
True or False. You may use the telephone in the patient’s home
without asking permission.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
It is not acceptable to use the telephone in the patient's home without asking for permission. Respecting the privacy and personal space of the patient is important, and using their telephone without permission would be an invasion of their privacy. It is always necessary to ask for permission before using any personal belongings of the patient.
40.
A neighbor has asked you some questions about the patient you are presently taking care of. "Mrs. Cooler is dying, isn’t she?" How will you answer?
Correct Answer
B. “I am sorry, but I cannot discuss Mrs. Cooler.”
Explanation
The correct answer is "I am sorry, but I cannot discuss Mrs. Cooler." This response respects the patient's privacy and maintains confidentiality, which is an important ethical principle in healthcare. Sharing sensitive information about a patient without their consent is a breach of trust and violates their right to privacy. By declining to discuss Mrs. Cooler, the caregiver upholds professional standards and protects the patient's confidentiality.
41.
Which of these statements about the elderly is
true?
Correct Answer
B. They can learn new things
Explanation
The statement "They can learn new things" is true because contrary to popular belief, elderly individuals are capable of learning and acquiring new knowledge and skills. Cognitive abilities may decline with age, but it does not mean that learning is impossible. With the right support, resources, and motivation, older adults can continue to learn and adapt to new experiences and information. Lifelong learning has numerous benefits for the elderly, including keeping the mind active, improving memory, and enhancing overall well-being.
42.
When working with people that are disabled, the
general goal of care is to:
Correct Answer
C. Promote maximum self-care and independence within the limits of the person’s ability
Explanation
When working with people that are disabled, the general goal of care is to promote maximum self-care and independence within the limits of the person's ability. This means that the focus is on empowering the individual to take care of themselves and be as independent as possible, while still recognizing and respecting their limitations. This approach promotes the person's autonomy, dignity, and overall well-being, allowing them to have control over their own lives and make choices that affect them. It also encourages them to develop and maintain their skills and abilities, fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
43.
It is Mrs. Morris’ usual time for lunch, but she says she is not hungry yet. This is the first time that Mrs. Morris has made this type of statement. What should the home health PCA do?
Correct Answer
B. Tell Mrs. Morris to let the PCA know when she wants to eat, and remind her that it is important that she have lunch
Explanation
The home health PCA should tell Mrs. Morris to let them know when she wants to eat and remind her that it is important for her to have lunch. This response acknowledges Mrs. Morris' statement and respects her autonomy by allowing her to eat when she feels hungry. It also emphasizes the importance of having lunch, which suggests that the PCA is concerned about Mrs. Morris' well-being and wants to ensure she is properly nourished.
44.
The ability to make observations is even more important when working with infants and young children than it is when working with adults. The chief reason for this is that infants and young children:
Correct Answer
D. Cannot explain how they feel
Explanation
Infants and young children cannot explain how they feel, which makes the ability to make observations even more important when working with them compared to working with adults. Since they are unable to communicate their emotions or discomfort verbally, it is crucial to closely observe their behavior, expressions, and body language to understand their needs and well-being. This allows caregivers and professionals to provide appropriate care, support, and intervention to meet their unique requirements.
45.
True or False. It is important to keep a
patient covered during a bed bath except for the part being washed.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
It is important to keep a patient covered during a bed bath except for the part being washed to ensure their privacy and maintain their dignity. Additionally, keeping the patient covered helps to maintain their body temperature and prevent them from feeling exposed or uncomfortable during the bath. This practice also helps to maintain a professional and respectful environment for both the patient and the caregiver.
46.
True or False. Massaging of bony prominences help to prevent skin breakdown by increasing the blood supply to the area.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Massaging of bony prominences helps to prevent skin breakdown by increasing the blood supply to the area. This is because massaging stimulates blood circulation, which in turn delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. By increasing blood flow, massaging can also help to remove waste products and reduce swelling. This increased blood supply can help to nourish the skin and underlying tissues, keeping them healthy and less prone to breakdown. Therefore, the statement "Massaging of bony prominences help to prevent skin breakdown by increasing the blood supply to the area" is true.
47.
True or False. When giving peri-care to a patient after a BM, wash using a front to back motion in order not to spread fecal material to other areas.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
When giving peri-care to a patient after a bowel movement, it is important to wash using a front to back motion in order to prevent the spread of fecal material to other areas. This technique helps to maintain proper hygiene and prevent the transfer of bacteria from the anal area to the genital area, reducing the risk of infections such as urinary tract infections. Therefore, the statement "True" is correct.
48.
When giving the patient a bath, if the water is too hot, it can injure (burn) the person’s skin. If it is too cold, it can chill the person. Therefore you should test the water temperature before beginning the bath by:
Correct Answer
D. Finding out if the water is warm ( not hot or cold) to the touch on the inside of your wrist.
Explanation
The best way to test the water temperature before giving a patient a bath is to find out if the water is warm (not hot or cold) to the touch on the inside of your wrist. This method allows for a quick and reliable assessment of the water temperature, as the skin on the inside of the wrist is sensitive and can accurately detect if the water is too hot or too cold. Adjusting the hot and cold water, using a patient's thermometer, or asking the patient to tell you the temperature may not provide an accurate assessment of the water temperature and could potentially lead to injury or discomfort for the patient.
49.
An elderly male patient
occasionally wets his trousers. What should the home health PCA do?
Correct Answer
D. Encourage him to go to the bathroom at least every two hours
Explanation
The correct answer is to encourage him to go to the bathroom at least every two hours. This is the most appropriate action to take in order to address the issue of the patient wetting his trousers. By reminding him to use the bathroom regularly, it can help prevent accidents and maintain his dignity. Providing fluids with his meals and avoiding coffee and tea may also be helpful, but the most immediate and direct solution is to encourage regular bathroom breaks.
50.
In giving foot care to a
patient who has diabetes, the Personal Care Assistant may take which of
these actions?
Correct Answer
C. Soak the patient’s feet for more than 5 minutes in a basin of warm water
Explanation
Soaking the patient's feet for more than 5 minutes in a basin of warm water is the correct action because it helps to soften the skin and nails, making it easier to clean and trim the nails. It also helps to improve circulation and alleviate any discomfort or pain in the feet. However, it is important to note that the water should not be too hot, as it can cause burns or damage to the skin.