What should a PCT do if they discover a patient has a skin tear?

When a Patient Care Technician (PCT) discovers a skin tear, the most appropriate action is to clean the area gently, apply an appropriate dressing, and notify a nurse.

This approach is correct because skin tears can lead to infection, increased discomfort for the patient, and further complications if not properly managed. By cleaning the area gently, the PCT helps to reduce the risk of infection and promotes a clean healing environment. Applying an appropriate dressing protects the wound from further injury and contamination, which is essential for healing. Notifying a nurse is critical because a healthcare professional needs to assess the injury and determine if further treatment is necessary, such as a more advanced dressing technique or monitoring for signs of infection.

Ignoring the injury would pose a risk to the patient's health, while applying antibiotic ointment alone without proper wound care could lead to improper healing or additional complications. Reporting it to the patient's family may be important at some point, but immediate patient care should take precedence, and the nurse should be the first point of contact to ensure proper treatment.