Vital Signs Quiz: Measure Patient Temperature and More

Questions and Answers

Which vital sign is NOT typically measured as part of a patient's health assessment?

Blood pressure

What is the normal body temperature in degrees Celsius?

36.6°C

Which method of measuring body temperature is contraindicated for unconscious patients?

Oral method

What should be added to the recorded temperature when using the axillary method of measurement?

0.5°C Signup and view all the answers

In which scenario is the axillary method of measuring body temperature typically used?

When rectal method is not feasible Signup and view all the answers

Which method of measuring body temperature is considered the most accurate?

Rectal method Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended duration for holding the thermometer in place after insertion into the anus?

5 minutes Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using a germicidal solution for the thermometer?

To disinfect the thermometer Signup and view all the answers

How should the pulse rate be measured according to the text?

Counting the beats for 15 seconds and then multiplying by 4 Signup and view all the answers

Which artery is NOT listed as a site for taking pulse in the text?

Coronary artery Signup and view all the answers

What should be noted when taking a pulse according to the text?

Pulse rhythm Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of counting the beats for 30 seconds when measuring pulse rate?

To reduce human error in counting Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to minimize 1/2 °C from the recorded temperature?

Subtract 1/2 °C from the recorded temperature Signup and view all the answers

What is a weak pulse indicative of according to the text?

Heart disease or another problem Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a site for taking pulse as mentioned in the text?

Ulnar artery Signup and view all the answers

What should be used to obtain an estimate of the quality of heart action when measuring pulse rate?

Fingers Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Vital Signs

Blood pressure, pulse, respiration rate, and body temperature are typically measured as part of a patient's health assessment.
Blood glucose is NOT typically measured as part of a patient's health assessment.

Body Temperature

Normal body temperature is 37°C.
Axillary method of measurement requires adding 0.5°C to the recorded temperature.
Axillary method is typically used in scenario where oral or rectal methods are contraindicated.
Rectal method is contraindicated for unconscious patients.
Tympanic method is considered the most accurate method of measuring body temperature.

Measuring Body Temperature

Thermometer should be held in place for 3 minutes after insertion into the anus.
A germicidal solution should be used to clean the thermometer to prevent cross-infection.

Pulse Rate

Pulse rate should be measured at the radial, brachial, or popliteal arteries.
The ulnar artery is NOT a site for taking pulse.
The quality of heart action can be estimated by using the fingers to assess the pulse.
Pulse rate should be measured for 30 seconds and multiplied by 2 to obtain beats per minute.
A weak pulse is indicative of decreased cardiac output.

Temperature Measurement

Minimizing 1/2 °C from the recorded temperature is equivalent to converting Fahrenheit to Celsius.

Patient Vital Signs and Temperature Measurement