HCA - Health Care Assistant Vital Signs and Clinical Measurements Flashcards
6 cards from real HCA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 HCA - Health Care Assistant Vital Signs and Clinical Measurements flashcards as text
A pulse oximeter measures which of the following?
Answer: Oxygen saturation of the blood
A pulse oximeter measures oxygen saturation (SpO2) by passing light through the skin.
What is a normal SpO2 reading for a healthy adult?
Answer: 95–100%
A normal SpO2 range is 95–100%, indicating adequate blood oxygen saturation.
When should an HCA report a patient's vital signs to the nurse?
Answer: Immediately when values are outside the normal range
Abnormal vital signs must be reported immediately so the nurse can assess and intervene promptly.
Which factor can cause a falsely low pulse oximeter reading?
Answer: Nail polish on the finger
Dark or metallic nail polish can interfere with the light sensor and produce a falsely low SpO2 reading.
What is the correct technique when counting a patient's respirations?
Answer: Count without the patient's knowledge to avoid altered breathing
Counting respirations without the patient's awareness ensures a natural, unaltered breathing rate.
An oral temperature reading may be inaccurate if the patient has:
Answer: Recently eaten or drunk a hot or cold beverage
Hot or cold food and beverages can temporarily change oral temperature, skewing the reading.