PCA Practice Test: Personal care Assistant Certification Quiz

Reviewed by Ives Holganza
Ives Holganza, Associate's Degree (Nursing) |
Care/Clinic Manager
Review Board Member
Ives Holganza, a healthcare professional with 14+ years of diverse nursing experience, serves as Clinic Manager at Medcor. Holding an Associate's degree in nursing from William Paterson University, she delivers high-quality patient care while optimizing clinic operations. Her area of specialization include emergency, acute rehab, long-term care, clinical management, and medical administration.
 , Associate's Degree (Nursing)
By Keevee
K
Keevee
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 1 | Total Attempts: 109,239
| Attempts: 110,368
SettingsSettings
Please wait...
  • 1/99 Questions

    True or False. Always tell the patient what you are going to do before starting a procedure.

    • True
    • False
Please wait...
About This Quiz

Prepare for success in your Personal Care Assistant Certification exam with our PCA Practice Test Quiz. Designed to simulate the actual exam experience, this comprehensive quiz covers all essential topics and skills required for certification. Our quiz offers a variety of realistic questions and scenarios to ensure thorough preparation. From basic caregiving principles to specialized techniques, you'll encounter a wide range of topics relevant to the PCA profession.

Additionally, detailed explanations accompany each question, providing valuable insights and clarifications to help reinforce your understanding. By taking our quiz, you'll not only enhance your readiness for the certification exam but also gain a deeper understanding of the responsibilities and expectations of a Personal Care Assistant. Don't leave your certification success to chance – take advantage of this valuable resource to maximize your chances of passing the PCA exam with flying colors.

PCA Practice Test: Personal care Assistant Certification Quiz - Quiz

Quiz Preview

  • 2. 

    In what situation should gloves be used

    • The patient is vomiting

    • The patient has been incontinent of stool

    • The patient has drainage wound

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 3. 

    True or False. Diarrhea can cause dehydration and other serious complications and should be reported.

    • True

    • False

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 4. 

    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.

    • True

    • False

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 5. 

    True or False. Gloves should be worn when handling items soiled by body fluids. 

    • True

    • False

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 6. 

    True or False. For an injury with profuse bleeding, apply pressure and call for assistance.

    • True

    • False

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 7. 

    True or False. If the patient begins to have a seizure, your first responsibility is to prevent the patient from injuring himself.

    • True

    • False

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 8. 

    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?

    • Ask the other PCAs who cares for the patient if they took the five dollars

    • Ask the patient why the PCA is being accused

    • Offer to give the patient five dollars

    • Notify the agency supervisor

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 9. 

    The patient tells you he has not moved his bowels in three days. What should you do?

    • Tell him not to worry about it

    • Tell him to take a laxative

    • Report it to the nursing supervisor

    • Pretend you didn’t hear him

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 10. 

    Part or your duties as a Personal Care Assistant are to assure a safe home environment. This includes:

    • Proper infection control with good hand washing

    • Electrical and fire safety

    • Moving things which may cause the patient to fall

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 11. 

    True or False. You may use the telephone in the patient’s home without asking permission.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 12. 

    The catheter drainage bag must be lower than the bladder, but not on the floor. 

    • True

    • False

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 13. 

    Body language is:

    • A way of communicating feelings by using the body, facial expression and the eyes.

    • Only used by the clients to tell their doctors what is causing them problems.

    • Only used by persons who are deaf and mute.

    • The newest dance craze.

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 14. 

    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.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 15. 

    True or False. Recording a patient’s TPR or vital signs is not important as long as you remember what they are.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 16. 

    True or False. Smoking in bed is fine for anyone who is not confused.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 17. 

    True or False. Every patient is the same and has the same needs and wants. 

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 18. 

    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.

    • True

    • False

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 19. 

    Which of the following is important when communicating with people:

    • Courtesy

    • Tact

    • Listening

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    When communicating with people, it is important to be courteous, tactful, and a good listener. Courtesy ensures that we are respectful and considerate towards others, creating a positive and friendly environment. Tact allows us to communicate our thoughts and opinions in a sensitive and diplomatic manner, avoiding unnecessary conflicts. Listening is crucial as it shows that we value the other person's perspective and helps in understanding their needs and concerns. Therefore, all of these qualities are important for effective communication with people.

    Rate this question:

  • 20. 

    The Personal Care Assistant should be sure to take which of these actions when caring for a newborn baby?

    • Support the baby’s head and neck when picking the baby up

    • Clean the inside of the baby’s ears with cotton swabs

    • Use petroleum jelly to keep the area around the baby’s navel moist

    • Hold the baby only at feeding and bath times

    Correct Answer
    A. Support the baby’s head and neck when picking the baby up
    Explanation
    When caring for a newborn baby, it is important for the Personal Care Assistant to support the baby's head and neck when picking them up. This is because newborns have weak neck muscles and their heads are large and heavy in proportion to their bodies. Failing to support the baby's head and neck can lead to injury or strain on their delicate neck muscles. Therefore, it is crucial to always provide proper support to ensure the baby's safety and well-being.

    Rate this question:

  • 21. 

    The telephone numbers of all the following are important to a patient. Which number  must the Personal Care Assistant have next to the phone?

    • The patient ‘s clergyman

    • The drugstore

    • The emergency medical squad

    • The next-door neighbor

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 22. 

    True or False. During a range of motion exercises, if you feel resistance or the patient complains of pain, you should continue anyway.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    During range of motion exercises, if you feel resistance or the patient complains of pain, you should not continue anyway. It is important to respect the patient's comfort and safety during these exercises. Continuing despite resistance or pain can potentially cause further injury or worsen the patient's condition. It is crucial to modify the exercises or seek guidance from a healthcare professional to ensure the patient's well-being.

    Rate this question:

  • 23. 

    True or False. Always report a pulse if the beats per minute are under 60 or over 100.

    • True

    • False

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 24. 

    True or False. Hand washing is the single best way to decrease the number of pathogens.

    • True

    • False

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 25. 

    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?

    • Give Mrs. Morris an enema

    • Tell Mrs. Morris to wait another day

    • Suggest that Mrs. Morris take a laxative first

    • Contact the agency supervisor to discuss the situation

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 26. 

    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?

    • “Mrs. Cooler is doing as well as can be expected.”

    • “I am sorry, but I cannot discuss Mrs. Cooler.”

    • ”Yes, it’s too bad, but she is very ill.”

    • “How did you know about Mrs. Cooler and her illness.”

    Correct Answer
    A. “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.

    Rate this question:

  • 27. 

    True or False. It is best to use a gait belt if a patient is unsteady.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Using a gait belt is indeed the best practice when dealing with a patient who is unsteady. A gait belt is a safety device that is placed around the patient's waist to provide support and stability during transfers or ambulation. It allows caregivers to have a secure grip on the patient, reducing the risk of falls or injuries. By using a gait belt, the caregiver can maintain better control and provide assistance to the unsteady patient, ensuring their safety and preventing accidents.

    Rate this question:

  • 28. 

    A patient who has been on bed rest is to get up in a chair.  The Personal Care Assistant helps the patient to sit on the edge of the bed. The patient says, “I am dizzy.” What should you do?

    • Rub the patient's feet

    • Help the patient to a standing position to see if the dizziness goes away

    • Put a cold compress on the patient’s head

    • Support the patient in a sitting position and wait a minute or so to see if the dizziness goes away

    Correct Answer
    A. Support the patient in a sitting position and wait a minute or so to see if the dizziness goes away
    Explanation
    When a patient who has been on bed rest suddenly gets up, they may experience dizziness due to a drop in blood pressure. Supporting the patient in a sitting position and waiting for a minute allows their body to adjust and the dizziness to subside. Rubbing the patient's feet, helping them to a standing position, or putting a cold compress on their head are not appropriate actions in this situation and may not address the underlying cause of the dizziness.

    Rate this question:

  • 29. 

    Miss Harris, a Personal Care Assistant, is assigned to care for Mr. Goodway. Miss Harris noticed that she felt very angry when she was with Mr. Goodway. What should Miss Harris do because she feels this way?

    • Tell Mr. Goodway how she is feeling

    • Find out if other PCAs have felt this way

    • Try to pretend Mr. Goodway is someone she likes

    • Talk with the agency supervisor about the situation

    Correct Answer
    A. Talk with the agency supervisor about the situation
    Explanation
    Miss Harris should talk with the agency supervisor about the situation. By discussing her feelings of anger towards Mr. Goodway with the supervisor, Miss Harris can seek guidance and support in managing her emotions and finding a solution. The supervisor may be able to provide insight, suggest strategies, or even reassign Miss Harris to a different client if necessary. Open communication with the supervisor is crucial in addressing and resolving any issues that arise in the caregiver-client relationship.

    Rate this question:

  • 30. 

    Which of the following is not recommended for promoting good daily habits?

    • Plenty of water

    • Laxatives

    • Exercise

    • Well balanced meals

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 31. 

    True or False. It is important to keep a patient covered during a bed bath except for the part being washed.

    • True

    • False

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 32. 

    An elderly male patient occasionally wets his trousers. What should the home health PCA do?

    • Give him fluids with his meal

    • Avoid giving him coffee and tea

    • Tell him if he urinates on himself he will have to be put in diapers

    • Encourage him to go to the bathroom at least every two hours

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 33. 

    Foods on a liquid diet would include:

    • Chicken, eggs and toast

    • Chopped and strained foods

    • Broth, tea and jello

    • Lightly seasoned foods

    Correct Answer
    A. Broth, tea and jello
    Explanation
    The correct answer is broth, tea, and jello because these are all examples of liquid or semi-liquid foods that can be consumed on a liquid diet. Chicken, eggs, and toast are not typically included in a liquid diet as they are solid foods. Chopped and strained foods could be included in a liquid diet, but they are not the best examples given the other options. Lightly seasoned foods could also be included in a liquid diet, but again, they are not the best examples given the other options provided.

    Rate this question:

  • 34. 

    As a Personal Care Assistant, you:

    • Work alone.

    • Work as part of the health care team.

    • May become the leader of the health care team.

    • I will never get any further training after orientation.

    Correct Answer
    A. Work as part of the health care team.
    Explanation
    As a Personal Care Assistant, you work as part of the healthcare team. This means that you collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as nurses, doctors, and therapists, to provide comprehensive care to patients. Working as part of a team allows for better coordination, communication, and efficiency in delivering care. It also enables you to learn from and contribute to the expertise of other team members, enhancing the overall quality of care provided to patients.

    Rate this question:

  • 35. 

    A patient is receiving oxygen through a nasal canal. Which safety precautions should the Personal  Care Assistant take:

    • Keep the television set at least 5 feet from the oxygen tank

    • Do not permit the patient to drink soda

    • Allow no smoking in the patient’s room

    • Do not use any lotions that contain oil in the patient’s room

    Correct Answer
    A. Allow no smoking in the patient’s room
    Explanation
    The correct answer is to allow no smoking in the patient's room. This is because oxygen is highly flammable and can easily ignite if exposed to an open flame or spark. Smoking poses a significant fire hazard in the presence of oxygen, so it is crucial to prohibit smoking in the patient's room to ensure their safety.

    Rate this question:

  • 36. 

    True or False. If you do not chart a task that you do for a patient, legally, it was not done.

    • True

    • False

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 37. 

    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.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 38. 

    During a visit, you need to wash your hands after removing gloves:

    • Before you give physical care to the patient

    • After you pet the dog

    • Before you leave the patient’s home

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. 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."

    Rate this question:

  • 39. 

    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.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 40. 

    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?

    • Insist that Mrs. Morris eat at this time

    • Tell Mrs. Morris to let the PCA know when she wants to eat, and remind her that it is important that she have lunch

    • Tell Mrs. Morris that if she doesn’t eat by herself, she will have to be fed

    • Tell Mrs. Morris that it took a lot of time to prepare the food and she should eat it while it is fresh

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 41. 

    True or False. Always transfer a patient toward his good side. 

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    When transferring a patient, it is generally recommended to transfer them towards their good side. This is because transferring towards the good side helps to minimize discomfort or pain for the patient, especially if they have any physical limitations or injuries on their other side. By transferring towards the good side, the patient can maintain better balance and stability during the transfer, reducing the risk of falls or injuries.

    Rate this question:

  • 42. 

    True or False. There is no need to be near an object to pick it up, just reach.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    False. The statement is incorrect because in order to pick up an object, one needs to be near it and physically reach for it. Simply reaching without being near the object would not allow for successful pickup.

    Rate this question:

  • 43. 

    True or False. It’s best to have a pillow between the legs or a patient with a new hip replacement.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Having a pillow between the legs of a patient with a new hip replacement is recommended because it helps to maintain proper alignment and prevent the legs from rubbing against each other. This can help reduce discomfort and pressure on the hip joint, promote healing, and prevent complications such as dislocation. Additionally, using a pillow can provide support and stability to the surgical site, allowing the patient to rest more comfortably and facilitate a faster recovery.

    Rate this question:

  • 44. 

    Which of these statements describes good body mechanics?

    • Carry heavy objects as far away from the body as possible

    • Bend the knees when lifting an object off the floor

    • Bend over at the waist when lifting an object off the floor

    • Lift rather than push a heavy object

    Correct Answer
    A. Bend the knees when lifting an object off the floor
    Explanation
    Bending the knees when lifting an object off the floor is a good body mechanics technique because it helps to maintain a stable and balanced position while lifting. By bending the knees, the load is distributed evenly throughout the legs and reduces strain on the back. This technique also allows for the use of the leg muscles, which are stronger than the back muscles, to do most of the work. It helps to prevent back injuries and promotes proper alignment of the spine.

    Rate this question:

  • 45. 

    When assisting a patient to walk with his walker, you should:

    • Clear a pathway and remove all safety hazards

    • Stay close by the patient’s side

    • Stand on the other side of the room

    • A and B

    Correct Answer
    A. A and B
    Explanation
    When assisting a patient to walk with his walker, it is important to clear a pathway and remove all safety hazards to ensure that the patient can walk safely without any obstacles. Additionally, it is crucial to stay close by the patient's side to provide support and assistance as needed. Standing on the other side of the room would not allow for immediate help if the patient were to stumble or need assistance. Therefore, the correct answer is A and B.

    Rate this question:

  • 46. 

    Patients sometimes express religious beliefs with which the Personal Care Assistant does not agree. In dealing with these situations, which of these understandings should the PCA use as a guide?

    • Patients have a right to their own beliefs, which should be respected

    • Patients should be told not to discuss their beliefs with PCA

    • PCAs should explain their beliefs to patients

    • PCAs should pretend to have the same beliefs that patients have

    Correct Answer
    A. Patients have a right to their own beliefs, which should be respected
    Explanation
    The PCA should use the understanding that patients have a right to their own beliefs, which should be respected. This means that even if the PCA does not agree with the patient's religious beliefs, they should still respect and acknowledge them. It is important for the PCA to provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment for the patient, allowing them to freely express their beliefs without interference or imposition of the PCA's own beliefs. This understanding promotes patient autonomy and upholds the principles of respect and dignity in healthcare.

    Rate this question:

  • 47. 

    Which of these actions is the Personal Care Assistant permitted to take in relation to drug administration?

    • Record and report the patient’s reaction to the medication

    • Handing out nonprescription medications to the patient who asks for them

    • Adjusting the dosage of medication given to the patient

    • Adjusting the times medications are given to fit into the patient’s activities scheduled

    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.

    Rate this question:

  • 48. 

    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:

    • Do not like to be told that to do

    • Are usually sicker than adults

    • Enjoy human contact more than adults

    • Cannot explain how they feel

    Correct Answer
    A. 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.

    Rate this question:

  • 49. 

    A patient’s prescription for heart pills has recently been changed. The home health PCA should notify the agency supervisor immediately if the patient makes which of these comments:

    • “The pills are very expensive.”

    • “These pills are different in shape from the pills I used to take.”

    • “I have a rash on my stomach since I’ve been taking these pills.”

    • “I can’t take these pills unless I have really cold water to drink.”

    Correct Answer
    A. “I have a rash on my stomach since I’ve been taking these pills.”
    Explanation
    The patient should notify the agency supervisor immediately if they have a rash on their stomach since they started taking the new pills. This could indicate a potential allergic reaction or side effect of the medication, which needs to be addressed promptly to ensure the patient's safety and well-being.

    Rate this question:

Ives Holganza |Associate's Degree (Nursing) |
Care/Clinic Manager
Ives Holganza, a healthcare professional with 14+ years of diverse nursing experience, serves as Clinic Manager at Medcor. Holding an Associate's degree in nursing from William Paterson University, she delivers high-quality patient care while optimizing clinic operations. Her area of specialization include emergency, acute rehab, long-term care, clinical management, and medical administration.

Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Mar 18, 2025 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Mar 18, 2025
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team

    Expert Reviewed by
    Ives Holganza
  • May 05, 2012
    Quiz Created by
    Keevee
Back to Top Back to top
Advertisement