Patient Care Technician Certification (PCTC) AMCA Practice Exam

In which situation would you most likely have to change a patient’s linens?

1. After a meal

2. If the patient has not asked for it

3. When the patient is experiencing incontinence

4. At the beginning of your shift

The correct answer is: When the patient is experiencing incontinence

Changing a patient’s linens is crucial for maintaining hygiene, comfort, and preventing skin breakdown, particularly in situations that involve bodily fluids. When a patient is experiencing incontinence, it is vital to change the linens promptly to prevent skin irritation and infections. This action not only ensures the patient's comfort but also adheres to infection control protocols, promoting a clean and safe environment. While there are other times when linens might need changing—such as after a meal if there are spills or at the start of a shift to ensure cleanliness—the most critical and immediate necessity arises when incontinence occurs. In this case, the patient's well-being and hygiene take precedence, thus making it the scenario where linens would most likely need to be changed.