PCT Vital Signs 3

Question 1

The diastolic blood pressure represents:

Accepted Answer

Pressure when the heart is at rest between beats

Answer

Diastolic pressure is the lower number and reflects the pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes between beats.

Question 2

Which of the following is the correct sequence for a complete vital signs assessment?

Accepted Answer

Temperature, pulse, respirations, BP, SpO2

Answer

The standard sequence is temperature, pulse, respirations, blood pressure, and SpO2, though facility protocols may vary.

Question 3

A patient's temperature is 38.9°C. What is this in Fahrenheit?

Accepted Answer

102.0°F

Answer

Using the formula F = (C × 9/5) + 32: (38.9 × 1.8) + 32 = 70.02 + 32 = 102.02°F.

Question 4

Which blood pressure cuff size error will cause a falsely HIGH reading?

Accepted Answer

Cuff too small for the arm

Answer

A cuff that is too small for the arm requires more pressure to compress the artery, resulting in a falsely elevated blood pressure reading.

Question 5

Kussmaul respirations are characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Deep, rapid, and labored breathing

Answer

Kussmaul respirations are deep, rapid, and labored, typically seen in diabetic ketoacidosis as the body compensates for metabolic acidosis.

PCT Practice Test