Patient Care Technician Certification (PCTC) AMCA Practice Exam

What is the appropriate response to a patient indicating they feel sudden pain?

1. To ignore it unless they ask for help

2. To assess and document the pain immediately

3. To reassure them without investigation

4. To change their position

The correct answer is: To assess and document the pain immediately

The appropriate response to a patient indicating sudden pain is to assess and document the pain immediately. This is important because sudden pain can be a sign of a serious medical condition that may require prompt attention. By assessing the pain, a healthcare professional can gather valuable information regarding the location, intensity, duration, and type of pain, which helps in determining the cause and appropriate interventions. Documenting the pain not only helps create a clear medical record but also ensures that all healthcare team members are informed about the patient's condition. This practice supports continuity of care and facilitates any necessary interventions that may need to be taken based on the patient's reported experience. In contrast, ignoring the pain could lead to a worsening condition and potentially serious outcomes for the patient. Simply reassuring the patient without investigating could overlook a critical issue that needs immediate attention. Changing the patient’s position without first understanding the nature of the pain could also be inappropriate and possibly exacerbate the discomfort or injury. Hence, assessment and documentation are crucial steps that guarantee the patient's safety and wellbeing.