What is the first action a PCT should take if they notice signs of patient distress?

When a Patient Care Technician (PCT) observes signs of patient distress, the immediate priority is to ensure the patient's safety and well-being. Notifying a licensed nurse immediately is crucial because nurses are trained to assess and manage medical emergencies. They can implement the necessary interventions based on their clinical judgment and training.

The other options, while they may seem supportive, do not address the immediate needs of a patient in distress effectively. Informing the patient’s family can be important, but it does not contribute to the immediate care or assessment of the patient. Ensuring the patient is comfortable may be relevant in some situations, but it does not substitute the urgency required in addressing potential medical emergencies. Taking a break to gather thoughts is not appropriate during a time when a patient may need urgent assistance. The swift action of alerting a licensed nurse can help mitigate risks and provide the patient with the necessary care as soon as possible.