Vital Signs and Physical Assessment Flashcards
7 cards from real GNA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Vital Signs and Physical Assessment flashcards as text
A nursing assistant is preparing to take a resident's blood pressure. What is the correct placement of the blood pressure cuff?
Answer: Around the upper arm, about 1 inch above the elbow crease
The blood pressure cuff should be placed around the upper arm approximately 1 inch (2–3 cm) above the antecubital crease (elbow crease) for accurate readings.
Which thermometer route is most appropriate for a resident who is confused and cannot follow instructions to hold the thermometer under the tongue?
Answer: Axillary (armpit)
The axillary route is the safest alternative for confused or uncooperative residents because it poses no risk of injury and requires no resident cooperation.
What is the normal oral body temperature range for an adult?
Answer: 97.6°F–99.6°F (36.4°C–37.6°C)
Normal oral body temperature for an adult is approximately 97.6°F–99.6°F (36.4°C–37.6°C), with 98.6°F (37°C) as the classic average.
When counting a resident's pulse, the nursing assistant notices the rhythm is irregular. What is the best action?
Answer: Count the pulse for a full minute and report the finding to the nurse
An irregular pulse must be counted for a full 60 seconds and reported to the nurse immediately, as it may indicate a cardiac arrhythmia.
The nursing assistant notices a resident's skin is pale, cool, and clammy. Which vital sign change is most consistent with these findings?
Answer: Low blood pressure and rapid pulse
Pale, cool, and clammy skin combined with low blood pressure and a rapid pulse are classic signs of shock or cardiovascular compromise, requiring immediate reporting.
How many full seconds should the nursing assistant count a regular pulse before multiplying to obtain the rate per minute?
Answer: 30 seconds, then multiply by 2
Counting a regular pulse for 30 seconds and multiplying by 2 is an accepted shortcut method; a full 60-second count is required for irregular pulses.
Which of the following is an early sign of hypoxia (low blood oxygen) that the nursing assistant should report?
Answer: Restlessness and confusion
Restlessness and confusion are early signs of hypoxia because the brain is highly sensitive to decreased oxygen levels; these changes must be reported immediately.