Question

To ensure accurate results when obtaining a client's vital signs, which actions would the nurse need to complete? Please select all that apply. Utilize only vital signs to provide the basis for your choices.

Answer 1

To ensure accurate vital signs measurement, the nurse must confirm the patient's identity, ensure the equipment functions properly, and follow the correct procedures for using tools like blood pressure cuffs.

Step-by-step explanation:

To ensure accurate results when obtaining a client's vital signs, several actions are crucial. Firstly, the nurse should confirm the patient's identity to prevent any mistakes. Secondly, the proper functioning of equipment such as the blood pressure cuff and pulse oximeter is essential. Thirdly, all preparatory steps, such as evaluating the patient's airway and risk of aspiration, should be addressed, with appropriate equipment readily available.

Accuracy in vital signs measurement is crucial as they are indicative of a patient's basic body functions such as body temperature, heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure. These measurements can signal the presence of disease; for example, a fever indicates an increased body temperature. When taking blood pressure, using the correct technique with the cuff at heart level and ensuring no blood flow into the patient's arm before taking the measurement is vital.