Vital Signs and Patient Monitoring Flashcards
6 cards from real CPCT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Vital Signs and Patient Monitoring flashcards as text
What is the most accurate method for measuring core body temperature?
Answer: Rectal thermometer
Rectal temperature measurement is considered the most accurate reflection of core body temperature.
Which of the following represents a normal adult respiratory rate?
Answer: 12–20 breaths per minute
Normal adult respiratory rate is 12–20 breaths per minute at rest.
When taking a manual blood pressure, the cuff should be inflated to approximately how many mmHg above the expected systolic pressure?
Answer: 30 mmHg
Inflating the cuff 30 mmHg above the expected systolic pressure ensures an accurate reading by fully occluding arterial flow.
A patient's blood pressure is 88/56 mmHg and they appear pale and diaphoretic. This presentation most likely suggests:
Answer: Hypotension and possible shock
A blood pressure of 88/56 combined with pallor and diaphoresis is consistent with hypotension and potential shock requiring immediate reporting.
Which pulse characteristic should be documented along with rate when reporting to a nurse?
Answer: Rhythm and strength
Pulse rhythm (regular or irregular) and strength (strong, weak, thready) provide important clinical information beyond just rate.
Orthostatic hypotension is defined as a drop in systolic blood pressure of at least how many mmHg upon standing?
Answer: 20 mmHg
Orthostatic hypotension is defined as a drop of ≥20 mmHg in systolic or ≥10 mmHg in diastolic pressure within 3 minutes of standing.