ATI RN
PN Vital Signs Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
96.0 to 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit is the normal temperature range of which age group?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Neonate, is correct because the normal body temperature range for newborns (birth to 28 days) is approximately 96.0°F to 99.5°F, depending on measurement site (e.g., axillary). Neonates have immature thermoregulation, leading to a slightly wider and lower range than adults. Toddler (1-3 years), typically has a range closer to 97.5°F-100.4°F. Adolescent, aligns with adult norms (97°F-99°F). Middle adult, also falls within 97°F-99°F, narrower than the neonate range. Neonates susceptibility to environmental changes and less efficient hypothalamus function explain this broader range. Clinical practice confirms 96.0°F-99.5°F as typical for neonates, especially in controlled settings like nurseries, making C the accurate answer based on pediatric physiology.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse palpates the pulse of a patient and documents the following: 6/6/12 pulse 85 and regular, 3+, and equal in radial, popliteal, and dorsalis pedis. What does the number 3+ represent?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In pulse documentation, 3+ indicates amplitude (strength) on a 0-4+ scale (0 absent, 1+ weak, 2+ normal, 3+ strong, 4+ bounding). Here, 85 is the rate, regular is rhythm, and equal across sites rules out deficit. Pulse rate is 85, not 3+. Pulse quality fits 3+, reflecting strength. Rhythm is described as regular, not 3+. Deficit isn't indicated. Choice B is correct, aligning with standard nursing terminology for pulse assessment, crucial for evaluating circulation.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse needs to obtain a radial pulse from a patient. What must the nurse do to obtain a correct measurement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Radial pulse is palpated with the first two fingers along the thumb side groove , ensuring accuracy without thumb pressure interference. Little finger side (B, C) is incorrect anatomically. Thumb use (C, D) distorts readings. Choice A is correct, per nursing technique standards, for reliable radial pulse measurement.
Question 4 of 5
A Normal body temperature can range from...
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Normal body temperature ranges from 97°F to 99°F (36.1°C to 37.2°C) orally , adjusting slightly by route (e.g., rectal +1°F, axillary -1°F). 95°F to 98°F includes hypothermia. 98°F to 105°F spans fever. 95°F to 100°F is too broad. Choice C is correct, reflecting standard ranges in nursing texts (e.g., Potter & Perry), critical for identifying normothermia versus deviations like fever or hypothermia.
Question 5 of 5
A heart rate measurement, or pulse, can be taken at which pulse point?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Pulse can be palpated at radial , brachial , dorsalis pedis , and other sites , depending on accessibility and need. All are valid, with radial most common, brachial for infants, and dorsalis pedis for circulation checks. Choice D is correct, per nursing assessment flexibility, allowing pulse detection across peripheral sites to monitor cardiac function.