Patient Care Technician Certification (PCTC) AMCA Practice Exam

What is a common responsibility of a patient care technician during a patient transfer?

1. To document the transfer in the medical record

2. To adjust the patient’s medications

3. To prepare equipment used in the transfer

4. To provide emotional support to the family

The correct answer is: To prepare equipment used in the transfer

A common responsibility of a patient care technician during a patient transfer is to prepare the equipment used in the transfer. This task is crucial for ensuring the safety and comfort of the patient during the transfer process. Preparing equipment may include ensuring that transfer devices, such as wheelchairs, stretchers, or gait belts, are clean, functional, and appropriately positioned for use. This preparation helps prevent accidents and injuries, both for the patient and the technician. Proper equipment handling ensures that the transfer is smooth and adheres to safety protocols. The technician must often assess the specific needs of the patient and select the right equipment to facilitate a safe and effective transfer, taking into account their mobility level and any medical considerations. Documenting the transfer in the medical record, adjusting medications, and providing emotional support to the family are also important aspects of patient care, but they do not directly align with the specific responsibilities during the actual transfer operation. Each of these responsibilities plays a role in overall patient care, but the primary and immediate duty during a transfer is to prepare and manage the appropriate equipment to promote patient safety.