Which vital signs should a CNA observe and report, and when?

Which vital signs should a CNA observe and report, and when?

• A. Temperature, pulse, respirations, and blood pressure; observe for abnormal values or symptoms and report promptly per policy.
• B. Only blood pressure.
• C. Vision changes.
• D. Weight every month.

Answer: (A)

Monitoring vital signs gives a quick view of how the body is functioning. The four core measurements—temperature, pulse, respirations, and blood pressure—are observed and reported because changes can signal fever or infection, circulation or heart problems, respiratory distress, dehydration, or other acute issues. You should report promptly per facility policy whenever a reading is outside the usual ranges or the resident shows concerning symptoms like fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, confusion, or severe fatigue. While vision changes and tracking weight are important for overall care, they are not the four core vital signs you monitor and report in this routine way. Normal ranges give a rough guide, such as temperature around 98.6°F (37°C), pulse 60–100 bpm, respirations about 12–20 per minute, and blood pressure roughly 90/60 to 120/80 mmHg; any significant deviation from these should be communicated quickly so the nurse can assess and respond.

Monitoring vital signs gives a quick view of how the body is functioning. The four core measurements—temperature, pulse, respirations, and blood pressure—are observed and reported because changes can signal fever or infection, circulation or heart problems, respiratory distress, dehydration, or other acute issues. You should report promptly per facility policy whenever a reading is outside the usual ranges or the resident shows concerning symptoms like fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, confusion, or severe fatigue. While vision changes and tracking weight are important for overall care, they are not the four core vital signs you monitor and report in this routine way. Normal ranges give a rough guide, such as temperature around 98.6°F (37°C), pulse 60–100 bpm, respirations about 12–20 per minute, and blood pressure roughly 90/60 to 120/80 mmHg; any significant deviation from these should be communicated quickly so the nurse can assess and respond.