A physical therapist observes a patient completing a treadmill exercise test. The patient's blood pressure rises significantly during exercise. The therapist should recognize this as:

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Assessing Vital Signs Questions

Question 1 of 5

A physical therapist observes a patient completing a treadmill exercise test. The patient's blood pressure rises significantly during exercise. The therapist should recognize this as:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: A normal response to exercise. During exercise, it is common for blood pressure to increase as the body works harder to supply oxygen to the muscles. This is known as the exercise pressor response and is a normal physiological reaction to physical activity. It helps the body meet the increased demand for oxygen during exercise. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because a rise in blood pressure during exercise is generally expected and not necessarily indicative of an issue that requires test termination, poor cardiovascular fitness, or a contraindication to exercise.

Question 2 of 5

Which of the following findings is most concerning during a skin assessment?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because a lesion that bleeds easily and does not heal could be indicative of skin cancer, such as melanoma. This finding is concerning as it suggests potential malignancy and requires immediate medical attention. A: A mole with uniform color and well-defined borders is typically considered benign and not as concerning during a skin assessment. C: A freckle that has not changed in size over several years is generally not worrisome as stable freckles are usually harmless. D: A birthmark present since infancy is usually harmless and not a cause for concern during a skin assessment.

Question 3 of 5

Is the following information subjective or objective? Mr. M. has shortness of breath that has persisted for the past 10 days; it is worse with activity and relieved by rest.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The information provided in the question describes Mr. M.'s personal experience of shortness of breath, which is based on his feelings and sensations. This subjective information cannot be measured or observed by others, making it open to interpretation. Therefore, it falls under the category of subjective. In contrast, objective information is factual and verifiable, typically based on measurable data or observations made by multiple individuals. In this case, since Mr. M.'s shortness of breath is described in terms of his personal experience and feelings, it is considered subjective. Hence, choice A is correct. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately reflect the nature of the information provided.

Question 4 of 5

Which of the following examples includes information recorded in the 'assessment' portion of the clinical record?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because tenderness in the right upper quadrant is a specific clinical finding that would typically be recorded in the 'assessment' portion of the clinical record. This information is objective and related to a physical examination finding, which is crucial for assessing the patient's condition. A, B, and C are incorrect because they are subjective observations or general statements that do not provide specific clinical assessment information. Option A describes the patient's overall appearance, B relates to the patient's subjective feeling, and C provides a vital sign measurement, all of which would typically be recorded in the 'subjective' or 'objective' portions of the clinical record.

Question 5 of 5

Which of the following best describes objective information?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it provides specific, measurable data (heart rate of 80 bpm) that is observable and quantifiable. Objective information is based on facts and observable phenomena, not subjective interpretations or feelings. Choices A, C, and D involve subjective statements from the patient, which can vary based on individual perception and interpretation, making them less reliable for making clinical decisions.

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