STNA Vital Signs and Clinical Observations 2

Question 1

When taking a radial pulse, the nurse aide should use which fingers?

Accepted Answer

The index and middle fingers

Answer

The index and middle fingers are used because they have sensitive pads; the thumb is avoided because it has its own pulse that can be confused with the patient's.

Question 2

A patient is breathing 28 times per minute. This finding is called:

Accepted Answer

Tachypnea

Answer

Tachypnea is defined as a respiratory rate above 20 breaths per minute in an adult; 28 breaths per minute is significantly elevated and should be reported.

Question 3

The nurse aide is unable to feel a radial pulse. The most appropriate next action is:

Accepted Answer

Try the other wrist; if still absent, report to the nurse immediately

Answer

An absent radial pulse is a critical finding; trying the opposite wrist first rules out positioning issues, and persistent absence requires immediate nursing notification.

Question 4

Which factor should be considered before measuring a patient's oral temperature?

Accepted Answer

Whether the patient has eaten, drunk, or smoked in the past 15–20 minutes

Answer

Eating, drinking, or smoking in the 15–20 minutes before oral temperature measurement can falsely alter the reading; waiting ensures accuracy.

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of measuring and recording vital signs?

Accepted Answer

To provide a baseline and detect changes in the patient's health status

Answer

Vital signs establish a baseline and allow the care team to detect deterioration or improvement in a patient's condition over time.

STNA - State Tested Nurse Aides Exam Practice Test

STNA - State Tested Nurse Aides Exam Practice Test

STNA Vital Signs and Clinical Observations 2