PCT Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield PCT facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which of the following is an example of objective data that a PCT should document? → Patient's pulse is 98 beats per minute
2. What is the key to effective cross-functional communication in PCT environments? → Adapting language and context for different audiences
3. When is it appropriate for a PCT to apply wrist restraints? → Only with a valid physician's order and after less restrictive measures have been tried
4. Which behavior by a PCT is an example of a communication barrier? → Speaking medical jargon to a patient unfamiliar with healthcare terms
5. What is the primary reason healthcare facilities require staff to use only approved abbreviations in documentation? → To prevent misinterpretation that could lead to patient harm
6. Which vital sign change in a post-surgical patient should the PCT report to the nurse FIRST? → Respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute
7. The prefix 'brady-' means: → Slow
8. A Stage 2 pressure injury is characterized by: → Partial thickness skin loss with exposed dermis
9. What does 'medical asepsis' mean in practice? → Reducing the number and spread of microorganisms (clean technique)
10. Droplet precautions are indicated for which of the following conditions? → Influenza
11. Which approach best demonstrates mastery of vital signs in PCT practice? → Applying principles to novel situations with sound judgment
12. Which approach best demonstrates mastery of infection control in PCT practice? → Applying principles to novel situations with sound judgment
13. Which type of isolation is required for a patient diagnosed with active tuberculosis (TB)? → Airborne precautions
14. Which of the following is considered a fomite in the transmission of infection? → A contaminated blood pressure cuff
15. Which of the following actions breaks the chain of infection at the 'portal of entry' link? → Inserting a urinary catheter using sterile technique
16. What is the purpose of the 24-hour clock (military time) in medical documentation? → To eliminate AM/PM confusion and prevent timing errors
17. Which observation must be reported to the nurse immediately? → A patient's urine output drops to 20 mL over the past hour
18. What is the role of informed consent in patient rights? → It ensures the patient understands and agrees to the plan
19. The brachial artery is the preferred site for blood pressure measurement because: → It is at heart level when the arm is properly positioned
20. What is the maximum volume of urine that should be drained at one time during initial catheterization of a patient with urinary retention? → 1,000 mL, then clamp if ordered by the nurse/provider
21. Eschar on a wound is best described as: → Thick, dry, black or brown dead tissue
22. Under HIPAA, who is authorized to access a patient's medical record? → Only staff directly involved in the patient's care
23. Which positioning technique best prevents pressure injuries on the heels? → Elevate heels completely off the mattress using pillows
24. A blood pressure reading should be repeated if: → The reading is unexpectedly high or low
25. Which of the following patients is at the HIGHEST risk for developing a healthcare-associated infection (HAI)? → A patient with an indwelling urinary catheter for 5 days
26. The SBAR communication tool stands for: → Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation
27. Which of the following is an endogenous source of infection? → The patient's own intestinal bacteria entering the bloodstream
28. Which approach to patient rights is considered best practice in current PCT standards? → Evidence-based, individualized interventions
29. Which document allows a patient to designate someone to make healthcare decisions if they become incapacitated? → Durable power of attorney for healthcare
30. The prefix 'peri-' means: → Around or surrounding