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?

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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.

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