Vital Signs Measurement 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 Vital Signs Measurement flashcards as text
What is the normal range for an adult's oral body temperature?
Answer: 97.6°F to 99.6°F
The normal oral temperature range for adults is 97.6°F to 99.6°F, with 98.6°F considered the average.
What is the normal resting pulse rate range for an adult?
Answer: 60 to 100 beats per minute
A normal adult resting heart rate is 60 to 100 beats per minute; values outside this range indicate bradycardia or tachycardia.
What is the normal respiratory rate for a healthy adult?
Answer: 12 to 20 breaths per minute
A normal adult respiratory rate is 12 to 20 breaths per minute; rates above or below this range require reporting.
Which blood pressure reading is considered normal for an adult?
Answer: Less than 120/80 mmHg
A normal blood pressure for adults is less than 120/80 mmHg; readings at or above 130/80 indicate hypertension.
The radial pulse is most commonly assessed at which location?
Answer: Wrist on the thumb side
The radial pulse is palpated at the wrist on the thumb side, over the radial artery, making it the most accessible pulse site for routine assessment.
When measuring a patient's respiratory rate, the CNA should:
Answer: Count breaths while appearing to still check the pulse
Counting respirations while appearing to check the pulse prevents the patient from consciously altering their breathing pattern, ensuring an accurate count.
Which thermometer route typically yields the highest temperature reading?
Answer: Rectal
Rectal temperature readings are generally 0.5°F to 1°F higher than oral readings because the rectum is a closed body cavity that retains more heat.