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Measuring Pulse & Respirations

A resident has just walked back from the activity room and is breathing fast and talking excitedly. His vital signs are due. What should the assistant do first?

  • A.Let him sit and rest a few minutes before measuring
  • B.Take the pulse and respirations immediately anyway
  • C.Tell him to hold his breath while you count
  • D.Skip vital signs entirely for the whole day
Correct answer

A. Let him sit and rest a few minutes before measuring

Why

Exercise, activity, and excitement raise pulse and respiratory rates temporarily. Allowing a few minutes of quiet rest gives readings that better reflect the resident's resting state.

Content outline: Basic Nursing Skills - Vital Signs: Pulse and Respirations · From the Basic Nursing Skills practice bank (BN-029).

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