Under what circumstances should a PCT inform a nurse immediately?

A Patient Care Technician (PCT) should inform a nurse immediately if a patient shows signs of distress or instability because this can indicate a significant health concern that requires urgent medical attention. Signs of distress may include changes in vital signs, difficulty breathing, severe pain, confusion, or any observable changes in the patient's condition that could lead to a worsening of their health status. Prompt communication in these situations is crucial for ensuring patient safety and facilitating timely interventions from the nursing staff or medical team.

In contrast, while a patient's request for additional food is important, it typically does not constitute an urgent situation that needs immediate escalation. Similarly, a patient's discharge, although relevant, is usually handled through established protocols and does not require immediate notification unless there are complications. Finally, if a patient is sleeping, it is generally not a cause for concern unless there are specific reasons to monitor their level of consciousness or if they were expected to be awake due to treatment protocols.