ATI RN
Neurological Vital Signs Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse records a pulse rate of 170 beats/minute on a patient's flow chart. For which of the following age groups would this be considered a normal reading?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Pulse rates vary by age. Newborns have a normal range of 120-170 beats/min, so 170 is within limits. A ten-year-old ranges from 70-110, making 170 tachycardic. Adolescents range 60-100, and adults 60-100, both far below 170. Choice A is correct as newborns' high metabolic rate and immature cardiovascular system allow such elevated pulses, a normal finding in neonatal assessments per pediatric norms.
Question 2 of 5
The five primary vital signs routinely monitored by both caregivers and medical professionals and highlighted in this training, include the following:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The five primary vital signs are body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate (pulse), respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation . Weight and height/BMI (B, C) are additional metrics, not core vital signs. Choice D is correct, listing the standard set monitored in clinical practice, per nursing and medical guidelines (e.g., WHO, ANA), essential for comprehensive patient assessment and detecting acute changes.
Question 3 of 5
When taking a blood pressure, it is best practice to...
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Best practice places the BP cuff on bare skin, upper arm above the elbow , ensuring accurate artery compression. Thick clothing muffles sounds. Crossed legs may elevate readings. Forearm is less reliable. Choice C is correct, per AHA guidelines, critical for nurses to obtain precise BP measurements avoiding common errors.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is working the night shift on a surgical unit and is making 4 AM rounds. She notices that the patient's temperature is 96.8°F (36°C), whereas at 4 PM the preceding day, it was 98.6°F (37°C). What should the nurse do?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Temperature drops at night (96.8°F) due to circadian rhythm, a normal variation from 98.6°F daytime. Infection isn't indicated. Blanket or meds are unnecessary without symptoms. Choice B is correct, per nursing knowledge of diurnal fluctuations.
Question 5 of 5
While attempting to obtain oxygen saturation readings on a toddler, what should the nurse do?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Toddlers need appropriate sensors; checking tape allergy ensures safety. Earlobe and nose are options but secondary. Ignoring pulse variation risks inaccuracy. Choice C is correct, per pediatric safety.