CNA Vital Signs and Measurements Flashcards
7 cards from real CNA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 CNA Vital Signs and Measurements flashcards as text
The nurse asks the CNA to obtain an apical pulse. Where is the stethoscope placed?
Answer: Left side of the chest at the 5th intercostal space, midclavicular line
The apical pulse is auscultated at the apex of the heart, located at the 5th intercostal space along the midclavicular line on the left.
A resident weighed 162 lbs last week and now weighs 167 lbs. What should the CNA do?
Answer: Document and report the weight gain to the nurse
A 5 lb weight gain in one week can indicate fluid retention and must be documented and reported to the nurse.
What is the normal range for adult oxygen saturation (SpO2) as measured by pulse oximetry?
Answer: 95–100%
A normal SpO2 in a healthy adult is 95–100%; values below 95% should be reported.
When measuring a resident's height with a standing scale, the CNA should instruct the resident to:
Answer: Remove shoes and stand straight with heels together
Shoes must be removed and the resident should stand erect with heels together for an accurate height measurement.
Which of the following is a sign of hypotension that a CNA should report after taking a blood pressure?
Answer: BP of 88/54 and the resident feels dizzy
A BP of 88/54 with dizziness indicates hypotension, which requires immediate reporting to the nurse.
A resident has an irregular pulse. How long should the CNA count the pulse?
Answer: One full minute
An irregular pulse must be counted for a full 60 seconds to obtain an accurate rate.
Which factor can cause a falsely LOW blood pressure reading when using a manual sphygmomanometer?
Answer: Deflating the cuff too quickly
Deflating the cuff too quickly can cause the CNA to miss the true systolic reading, resulting in a falsely low measurement.