What is the first action a patient care technician should take if a patient complains of pain at the catheter exit site?

When a patient care technician encounters a patient complaining of pain at the catheter exit site, the first action to take is to notify the registered nurse (RN). This step is critical because the RN has the training and authority to assess the situation thoroughly and make decisions regarding further interventions or treatments. The pain could indicate a potential complication, such as infection, irritation, or improper catheter placement, which requires professional evaluation.

Prompt communication with the RN ensures that the patient receives the appropriate medical assessment and care necessary to address the issue. While pain medication, repositioning, and documenting the pain are important steps in patient care, they should come after notifying the RN, as the RN may provide specific instructions on how to proceed based on their assessment of the situation. This approach prioritizes the patient’s safety and well-being by ensuring that a licensed healthcare professional is involved in managing the patient's complaint.