Patient Care Flashcards
7 cards from real ARRT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Patient Care flashcards as text
A patient arrives for a radiographic exam and states they are allergic to iodine. Which action should the radiologic technologist take FIRST?
Answer: Notify the radiologist or ordering physician immediately
The radiologist or ordering physician must be notified immediately so they can determine the appropriate course of action, including whether premedication is needed.
Which vital sign finding in an adult patient should be reported to the supervising clinician before proceeding with a routine radiographic exam?
Answer: Respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute
A respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute is below the normal range (12-20) and indicates bradypnea, which warrants clinical notification.
When transferring a patient from a wheelchair to the radiographic table, the wheelchair should be positioned at what angle relative to the table?
Answer: 45 degrees
Positioning the wheelchair at approximately 45 degrees to the table allows the shortest, most controlled pivot transfer for the patient.
A patient with a suspected C-spine injury is brought to the radiology department. Which method of moving the patient's head and neck is appropriate?
Answer: Manual in-line stabilization at all times
Manual in-line stabilization of the cervical spine must be maintained at all times to prevent further injury until the injury is ruled out.
What is the correct technique for removing contaminated gloves to prevent self-contamination?
Answer: Peel one glove inside-out from the wrist, then use bare fingers inside the second glove's wrist to remove it
The proper technique keeps contaminated outer surfaces folded inside during removal so bare skin never contacts the contaminated exterior.
A diabetic patient scheduled for a barium enema reports they skipped breakfast and have not eaten since last night. The technologist should be alert for signs of:
Answer: Hypoglycemia
An NPO diabetic patient is at high risk for hypoglycemia; the technologist should assess for dizziness, diaphoresis, confusion, and notify clinical staff.
Which position is recommended for a patient who is experiencing nausea and vomiting while supine on the radiographic table?
Answer: Turn the patient's head to the side and lower the table to a semi-recumbent position
Turning the head to the side prevents aspiration, and lowering the table helps prevent further nausea triggered by the supine position.