Vital Signs and Basic Assessment Flashcards

What is the normal resting heart rate range for a healthy adult?

Answer: 60–100 beats per minute

A normal adult resting heart rate falls between 60 and 100 beats per minute; values outside this range indicate bradycardia or tachycardia.

According to current guidelines, a blood pressure reading is classified as normal when systolic is:

Answer: Less than 120 mmHg and diastolic less than 80 mmHg

The American Heart Association classifies normal blood pressure as systolic below 120 mmHg and diastolic below 80 mmHg.

What is the normal respiratory rate range for a resting adult?

Answer: 12–20 breaths per minute

A normal adult respiratory rate at rest is 12–20 breaths per minute; rates outside this range suggest bradypnea or tachypnea.

Which temperature-taking route provides the most accurate measurement of core body temperature?

Answer: Rectal

Rectal temperature measurement is the most accurate reflection of core body temperature because the rectal vault is well-insulated and closely approximates internal temperature.

What does the diastolic number in a blood pressure reading represent?

Answer: The pressure in the arteries between heartbeats when the heart is at rest

Diastolic pressure is the pressure remaining in the arteries when the heart muscle relaxes between beats.

A normal pulse oximetry (SpO₂) reading for a healthy adult at sea level is:

Answer: 95–100%

A SpO₂ of 95–100% indicates adequate oxygen saturation; readings below 95% warrant further clinical evaluation.

Pain is frequently called the 'fifth vital sign.' Which scale is most widely used for adults to self-report pain intensity?

Answer: Numeric Rating Scale (0–10)

The Numeric Rating Scale (0–10) is the most commonly used self-report tool for adults because it is simple, quick, and easily communicated.