Skills Module 3.0- Vital Signs Posttest

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Skills Module 3.0- Vital Signs Posttest Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

Which is a priority when assessing vital signs in a confused patient?

• Take vitals at the end of the shift

✔✔B. Ensure patient safety and explain each step

• Skip temperature
• Only take blood pressure

Which vital sign should be assessed first in an unresponsive patient?✔✔A. Respirations

• Temperature
• Pulse oximetry
• Blood pressure

What should the nurse do before placing a pulse oximeter on the finger?✔✔A. Check for nail polish or artificial nails

• Use alcohol to clean the probe 1 / 3

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• Ask the patient to squeeze it
• Soak the hand in cold water

Which of the following reflects orthostatic hypotension?✔✔A. A drop in BP when changing from lying to standing

• A rise in heart rate with rest
• Normal BP when standing
• Low BP during exercise

What should the nurse assess when a patient has a weak and thready radial pulse?✔✔A. Check apical pulse for one full minute

• Ignore and reassess later
• Record it as bradycardia
• Tighten the BP cuff

Which respiratory pattern is considered abnormal in an adult?✔✔A. Irregular shallow breaths with periods of apnea

• Regular 16 breaths per minute 2 / 3

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• Quiet and even breathing
• Slightly faster breathing after climbing stairs

What is a common cause of inaccurate tympanic temperature readings?✔✔A. Impacted earwax

• Clean probe
• Correct insertion technique
• Room temperature

What is the normal range for adult systolic blood pressure?✔✔A. 90 to 120 mm Hg

• 50 to 70 mm Hg
• 130 to 160 mm Hg
• 30 to 50 mm Hg

What is the first step in taking vital signs?✔✔A. Identify and verify the patient using two identifiers

• Take temperature
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