A patient is admitted with pneumonia. Her vital signs are: BP 112/64 mm Hg, HR 102, RR 26, tympanic temperature 37.9°C (100.2°F). Which vital sign requires immediate attention?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The respiratory rate of 26 breaths/min (normal 12-20) is significantly elevated, consistent with pneumonia’s impact on breathing (e.g., tachypnea due to reduced lung function). This requires immediate attention to assess oxygenation and potential respiratory distress. HR 102 is elevated but expected with fever and infection; temperature 37.9°C is a mild fever; pulse pressure (48 mm Hg) is within normal range (40-60 mm Hg).

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Relaxation fever (persistent with wide daily fluctuations) is typical in sepsis, due to ongoing infection and immune response. Influenza (A) is acute, typhoid (B) stepwise, malaria (C) intermittent.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A gait belt stabilizes during ambulation, reducing falls. It’s not for lifting (A), CPR (C), or medication (D).

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Daily perineal care prevents infection, regardless of staffing (B), mobility (C), or requests (D).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Body mechanics prevent injury by using proper alignment, not speed (A), avoiding involvement (C), or static positioning (D).