Question

You have assessed a 45 yr old patient's vital signs. Which of the following assessment values requires immediate attention?

1) 148/88 mmHg Blood pressure.
2) 100F temperature.
3) 30 respiration per min.
4) 45 beats for 30 sec

Answer 1

The most concerning vital sign is the elevated respiration rate of 30 breaths per minute, which is significantly above the normal range and may indicate respiratory distress or another serious health condition that requires immediate attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

The vital sign among the options that requires immediate attention is 30 respirations per minute. Normal breathing rate for an adult is between 12-18 breaths per minute. A respiration rate of 30 per minute is significantly higher, potentially indicating respiratory distress or another serious health issue. The other vital signs listed are high blood pressure (148/88 mmHg), slight fever (100°F), and an apparently normal pulse rate (45 beats for 30 seconds when doubled gives 90 beats per minute, within the normal range).

In healthcare, monitoring vital signs is crucial because changes can indicate the need for urgent medical care. The assessment values provided signify various health conditions: the blood pressure reading suggests hypertension, the temperature indicates a fever, and the respiration rate is the most concerning, signaling a potential emergency. Assessing and responding to vital signs effectively can be the difference between stabilizing a patient and a medical crisis.