ATI LPN
Fundamentals of Nursing Vital Signs NCLEX Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Two hours after surgery, the NAP reports that a patient's vital signs are: BP R arm 112/72, L arm 124/96; HR 98, RR 22, temporal artery temp 36.4°C. Which of the following actions is appropriate by the nurse?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The vital signs show an elevated respiratory rate (RR 22, normal 12-20) and heart rate (HR 98, upper normal range), suggesting potential respiratory or cardiac distress post-surgery. A focused respiratory assessment and apical heart rate check are appropriate to investigate these abnormalities thoroughly, as they could indicate complications like atelectasis or tachycardia. The BP difference (12/24 mm Hg) is notable but not immediately alarming unless persistent, and the temperature is normal.
Question 2 of 5
Intermittent fever is common in
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Intermittent fever, with spikes followed by normal temperatures, is characteristic of malaria (D) due to periodic parasite release. Influenza (A) and sepsis (C) cause more sustained fevers; typhoid (B) has a stepwise pattern.
Question 3 of 5
The main purpose of infection prevention in a healthcare setting is to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Infection prevention protects all—patients, staff, visitors—not just workers (A), surgical cases (C), or communicable diseases (D).
Question 4 of 5
The vital signs commonly recorded by nurses include:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Vital signs—pulse, respiration, temp, BP—reflect core status. Others (A, C, D) are assessments, not routine vitals.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse assessing a patient's pulse is primarily checking for:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Pulse assessment checks heart rate and rhythm. BP (A), respiration (C), and temp (D) are separate vitals.