Vital Signs NCLEX Quiz Questions And Answers
Welcome to our Vital Signs NCLEX Questions Quiz! This quiz is designed to help nursing students and aspiring nurses prepare for the NCLEX exam by testing their knowledge of vital signs assessment and interpretation. In this quiz, you'll encounter a variety of questions related to vital signs, including pulse, blood pressure, temperature, and respiratory rate. You'll be presented with scenarios and asked to identify normal and abnormal vital sign readings, interpret changes in vital signs, and determine appropriate nursing interventions based on the findings.
By participating in this quiz, you'll have the opportunity to practice critical thinking skills and Read moreapply nursing principles to real-life scenarios. You'll also gain confidence in your ability to assess and monitor patients' health status, which is essential for success on this exam and in clinical practice. So, let's get started and test your knowledge with our Vital Signs NCLEX Questions Quiz.
Vital Signs NCLEX Questions Questions and Answers
- 1.
To ensure the best reception of sound, the earpieces of the stethoscope should follow the contour of the ear canal, pointing to where?
- A.
Away from your face when the stethoscope is in place
- B.
Towards your face when the stethoscope is in place
- C.
Parallel to the temporal lobe of the head
- D.
Perpendicular to the occiput
Correct Answer
B. Towards your face when the stethoscope is in placeExplanation
When using a stethoscope, positioning the earpieces correctly is crucial for optimal sound reception. The earpieces should follow the contour of the ear canal and point towards your face when the stethoscope is in place. This ensures that the sound waves travel directly into your ears, providing clear and accurate auscultation of body sounds such as heartbeats, breath sounds, or other internal noises. If the earpieces are positioned incorrectly, such as pointing away from your face, it can result in a less effective seal with the ear canal, and you may not hear sounds as clearly. Ensuring the proper alignment of the earpieces enhances the performance of the stethoscope and improves the accuracy of your assessments when using it in a medical or clinical setting.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Major parts of the stethoscope. (Check all that apply)
- A.
Earpieces
- B.
Tubing
- C.
Chest piece
- D.
Binaural
Correct Answer(s)
A. Earpieces
B. Tubing
C. Chest piece
D. BinauralExplanation
It consists of a long, flexible tube attached to a chest piece with two earpieces. The chest piece contains one or two microphones (diaphragm and bell) that capture and transmit sound from the patient's body to the healthcare provider's ears.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Pick the most appropriate definition of Vital Signs.
- A.
Signs and symptoms of a disease
- B.
An indication of basic body functioning
- C.
A part of human composition
- D.
Physiology and anatomy
Correct Answer
B. An indication of basic body functioningExplanation
Vital signs are measurements of the body's fundamental physiological functions, providing essential information about basic body functioning. These signs are crucial indicators of a person's overall health status and help healthcare professionals assess and monitor various physiological processes. The key vital signs typically include:Heart Rate (Pulse): The number of heartbeats per minute, indicating the heart's pumping activity.Respiratory Rate: The number of breaths taken per minute, reflecting the respiratory (breathing) function.Blood Pressure: The force of blood against the walls of the arteries, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). It consists of two values: systolic (pressure during heartbeats) and diastolic (pressure between heartbeats).Body Temperature: The degree of heat in the body, measured in degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius.These vital signs offer valuable insights into the cardiovascular, respiratory, and thermoregulatory systems. Monitoring changes in vital signs can help identify potential health issues, assess the effectiveness of treatments, and guide medical interventions.Rate this question:
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- 4.
When body temperature falls below 93.2 degrees Fahrenheit, the person is suffering from the extreme:
- A.
Hyperthermia
- B.
Hypothermia
- C.
Orthopnea
- D.
Dyspnea
Correct Answer
B. HypothermiaExplanation
When the body temperature falls below 93.2 degrees Fahrenheit (34 degrees Celsius), a person is suffering from a condition known as severe hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing a drop in core body temperature. Severe hypothermia is a medical emergency and can be life-threatening.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which time of day would we have the lowest temperature reading?
- A.
4 pm to 6 pm
- B.
4 am to 6 am
- C.
8 pm to 12 midnight
- D.
1 am to 4 am
Correct Answer
D. 1 am to 4 amExplanation
The lowest body temperature reading typically occurs in the early morning, just before or around the time of sunrise. This point in the day is known as the "body temperature nadir" or "circadian nadir."Rate this question:
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- 6.
The difference between the Bell and the Diaphragm portions of the chest piece in a stethoscope is the following:
- A.
Diaphragm is circular and flat surfaced, bell is bowl-shaped.
- B.
Bell is circular and flat-surfaced, and the diaphragm is bowl-shaped.
- C.
Bell and diaphragm have the same shape.
- D.
Bell transmits high-pitched sounds.
Correct Answer
A. Diaphragm is circular and flat surfaced, bell is bowl-shaped.Explanation
The chest piece of a stethoscope typically has two sides: the diaphragm and the bell.Diaphragm:The diaphragm is a circular, flat surface that is sensitive to high-frequency sounds.It is often used for listening to higher-pitched sounds such as breath sounds and normal heart sounds.Bell:The bell is bowl-shaped and is used for detecting lower-frequency sounds.It is often employed to listen to certain heart murmurs and low-frequency sounds in the lungs.The shape and construction of the diaphragm and bell serve specific purposes in auscultation (listening to body sounds). The diaphragm is more effective for higher-pitched sounds, while the bell is designed to pick up lower-frequency sounds. By having both options on the chest piece, healthcare professionals can use the stethoscope to listen to a range of body sounds with varying frequencies.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Acute pain and anxiety increase pulse rates because of what reason?
- A.
Sympathetic nerves are suppressed
- B.
Parasympathetic nerves are suppressed
- C.
Parasympathetic nerves are stimulated
- D.
Sympathetic nerves are stimulated
Correct Answer
D. Sympathetic nerves are stimulatedExplanation
Acute pain and anxiety can both increase pulse rates due to the body's "fight or flight" (sympathetic nervous system) response, which is a physiological reaction to stress, danger, or perceived threatsRate this question:
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- 8.
PULSE is a rhythmic beating in the body that signifies regular, recurrent expansion and contraction of heart muscles produced by the waves of pressure that are caused by the ejection of blood from which part of the heart as it contracts?
- A.
Right ventricle
- B.
Right auricle
- C.
Left ventricle
- D.
Left auricle
Correct Answer
C. Left ventricleExplanation
The left ventricle is responsible for pumping oxygen-rich blood out to the body's systemic circulation, and the resulting surge of blood through the arteries creates a pulse that can be felt at various pulse points in the body.Rate this question:
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- 9.
A student nurse taking care of a patient with an abnormal body temperature needs more training when he/she does what?
- A.
Monitor the patient's temperature at least every 4 hours or PRN.
- B.
Discourages a patient from drinking fluids to avoid excessive activity
- C.
Cover the patient with more blankets, and close room doors or windows.
- D.
Further, assess for the possible site of localized infection
Correct Answer
B. Discourages a patient from drinking fluids to avoid excessive activityExplanation
A student nurse needs more training when they discourage a patient from drinking fluids to avoid excessive activity. This action is not appropriate when caring for a patient with an abnormal body temperature, as proper hydration is essential for maintaining bodily functions and helping to regulate body temperature.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Pulse rate faster than 100 beats per minute:
- A.
Bradycardia
- B.
CVA
- C.
Tachycardia
- D.
Orthopnea
Correct Answer
C. TachycardiaExplanation
Tachycardia is a medical term that refers to an abnormally rapid heart rate. Specifically, it is defined as a resting heart rate greater than 100 beats per minute (bpm) in adults. However, the exact threshold for what is considered "abnormal" can vary depending on individual factors, such as age and overall health.Rate this question:
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- 11.
An adult blood pressure reading of 120/80 mm Hg is:
- A.
Prehypertension
- B.
Hypotensive
- C.
Normal
- D.
Hypertensive
Correct Answer
C. NormalExplanation
A blood pressure reading of 120/80 mm Hg is considered normal. Blood pressure is expressed as two values: systolic pressure over diastolic pressure.Systolic Pressure (the first number, 120): This represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats or contracts, pumping blood into the arteries.Diastolic Pressure (the second number, 80): This represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.In the given reading of 120/80 mm Hg:The systolic pressure is 120 mm Hg.The diastolic pressure is 80 mm Hg.Normal blood pressure is typically considered to be around or below 120/80 mm Hg. This range is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. Blood pressure values can be classified into different categories, including normal, prehypertension, hypertension stage 1, and hypertension stage 2, with specific ranges for each category. In this case, the blood pressure reading falls within the normal range.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Pulse Rate slower than 60 beats per minute:
- A.
Bradycardia
- B.
CVA
- C.
Tachycardia
- D.
Orthopnea
Correct Answer
A. BradycardiaExplanation
Bradycardia is a medical term that refers to an abnormally slow heart rate. Specifically, it is defined as a resting heart rate of fewer than 60 beats per minute (bpm) in adults. Bradycardia can be caused by various factors and medical conditions.Rate this question:
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- 13.
This condition may produce a subnormal temperature:
- A.
Cerebral palsy
- B.
Infection
- C.
Hypothyroidism
- D.
Fever
Correct Answer
C. HypothyroidismExplanation
Thyroid hormones help stimulate heat production in the body. In hypothyroidism, the lack of these hormones can lead to reduced heat generation, making it difficult for the body to maintain a normal temperature, especially in colder conditions.Rate this question:
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- 14.
In assessing a tympanic temperature in a 20-year-old male patient, which of the following could result in the least accurate reading?
- A.
A plastic probe covers the tip of the thermometer.
- B.
The patient has been outdoors for more than 30 minutes.
- C.
The pinna is pulled backward and up.
- D.
The lens and the probe of the device are clean and intact
Correct Answer
B. The patient has been outdoors for more than 30 minutes.Explanation
While tympanic temperature measurements are generally considered to reflect core body temperature more closely than oral or axillary measurements, environmental factors can still influence readings to some extent. Direct exposure to outdoor temperatures, especially for an extended period, can affect the temperature of the ear canal and potentially lead to inaccurate readings. Therefore, it's recommended to ensure that the patient has been indoors for at least 10 minutes prior to taking a tympanic temperature measurement to minimize the influence of external temperatures.Rate this question:
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- 15.
When obtaining an oral temperature, after requesting the patient to open the mouth, the probe is gently inserted into the
- A.
Anterior sublingual cavity
- B.
Lateral sublingual density
- C.
Superior lingual mucosity
- D.
Posterior sublingual pocket
Correct Answer
D. Posterior sublingual pocketExplanation
When obtaining an oral temperature, after requesting the patient to open the mouth, the probe is gently inserted into the posterior sublingual pocket.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The following traits are typical among the elderly. (Check all that apply)
- A.
Infection is often afebrile
- B.
Heart sounds are muffled
- C.
Skin is more fragile
- D.
Decreased heart rate at rest
- E.
Libido is normally heightened
Correct Answer(s)
A. Infection is often afebrile
B. Heart sounds are muffled
C. Skin is more fragile
D. Decreased heart rate at restExplanation
All are correct except libido. Libido typically decreases with age.Rate this question:
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- 17.
When measuring the rectal temperature of an adult, how deep would the thermometer probe be inserted into the rectum?
- A.
1.5 inches
- B.
2.5 inches
- C.
0.5 inches
- D.
1.5 centimeters
Correct Answer
A. 1.5 inchesExplanation
When measuring the rectal temperature of an adult, the thermometer probe should be inserted into the rectum to a depth of approximately 1 to 1.5 inches, or about 2.5 to 4 centimeters. This depth is sufficient to obtain an accurate reading of the core body temperature, as the rectal mucosa is highly vascular and provides a good reflection of the body's internal temperature.Rate this question:
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- 18.
The most appropriate position in obtaining a rectal temperature for an adult would be:
- A.
Supine
- B.
Fowler's
- C.
Sim's
- D.
Lateral
Correct Answer
C. Sim'sExplanation
Yes, for an adult, the most appropriate position for obtaining a rectal temperature is the Sims' position, also known as the left lateral recumbent position.Rate this question:
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- 19.
When an infant is in a side-lying position, using an electronic axillary temperature, what kind of temperature would the lower axilla record?
- A.
Higher temperature
- B.
Lower temperature
- C.
Consistent temperature
- D.
Variable temperature
Correct Answer
B. Lower temperatureExplanation
When an infant is in a side-lying position, using an electronic axillary (underarm) thermometer, the lower axilla would typically record a temperature that is slightly lower than the infant's core body temperature. The axillary temperature tends to be lower than oral or rectal temperatures because it is influenced by external factors, such as the surrounding air temperature.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Regulator of body temperature:
- A.
Medulla
- B.
Sebaceous glands
- C.
Hypothalamus
- D.
Wernicke's area
Correct Answer
C. HypothalamusExplanation
The hypothalamus acts as the body's thermostat, constantly monitoring temperature and orchestrating various responses to maintain a stable internal environment. This regulatory function is vital for overall health and proper bodily function.Rate this question:
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- 21.
A rise of 1 degree Fahrenheit in temperature will increase the pulse rate by how many beats per minute?
- A.
3
- B.
10
- C.
5
- D.
6
Correct Answer
B. 10Explanation
A general guideline often used in medicine is that for every 1 degree Fahrenheit (or 0.56 degrees Celsius) increase in body temperature, the pulse rate may increase by approximately 10 beats per minute. However, it's essential to note that this can vary from person to person, and the relationship between temperature and pulse rate can be influenced by factors such as individual health, age, fitness level, and the underlying cause of the temperature increase.Rate this question:
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- 22.
In order to ensure correct placement, how should a tympanic thermometer be inserted into an adult's ear to get a correct reading?
- A.
Perpendicular to the head
- B.
Pulling pinna upward
- C.
Figure-8 fashion
- D.
Pulling pinna downward
Correct Answer
C. Figure-8 fashionExplanation
The "figure 8 fashion" or "figure-eight motion" is a technique used to straighten the ear canal when inserting a tympanic thermometer. This technique is especially helpful when taking a temperature measurement in an adult or child to ensure correct placement.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Possible causes of Tachycardia:
- A.
Shock
- B.
Hemorrhage leading to hypovolemia
- C.
Epinephrine
- D.
Unrelieved severe pain
Correct Answer(s)
A. Shock
B. Hemorrhage leading to hypovolemia
C. Epinephrine
D. Unrelieved severe painExplanation
All of these can contribute to tachycardia.Rate this question:
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- 24.
When temperatures are compared with normal temperature ranges, what is normally revealed?
- A.
Medical history of the patient
- B.
Presence of abnormalities
- C.
The need to repeat the reading
- D.
Accurate vital signs
Correct Answer
B. Presence of abnormalitiesExplanation
Comparing body temperatures to normal ranges is crucial for assessing health. Normal body temperature hovers around 98.6°F (37°C), but variations occur based on factors like age and time of day. Deviations from these norms signal potential abnormalities. An elevated temperature may indicate fever and infection, while a low temperature can suggest hypothermia. This comparison guides healthcare professionals in identifying early signs of illness and informs appropriate interventions, emphasizing the importance of body temperature as a key vital sign in monitoring overall health.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Possible causes of Bradycardia:
- A.
Pain
- B.
Beta-blockers
- C.
Supine position
- D.
Sleeping
Correct Answer(s)
B. Beta-blockers
C. Supine positionExplanation
B and C are correct because beta-blockers slow the heart rate by blocking a small number of receptors on the heart that help it contract. Lying flat makes it easier for blood to be pumped through the body because there is less gravity to contend with. Due to this, the heart can slow down and achieve the same effect at a slower rateRate this question:
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- 26.
The colored probes of an electronic thermometer are indicative of
- A.
Blue and red are both for rectal.
- B.
Blue and red are both for oral.
- C.
Blue is for rectal, and red is for oral.
- D.
Blue is for oral, and red is for rectal.
Correct Answer
D. Blue is for oral, and red is for rectal.Explanation
In electronic thermometers, colored probes signify designated use. A blue probe is intended for oral temperature measurements, while a red probe is designed for rectal readings. This color-coding system helps prevent cross-contamination and ensures accurate temperature assessments. Using the appropriate probe for each measurement site enhances hygiene and minimizes the risk of spreading infections. It is crucial for healthcare professionals and individuals alike to adhere to these color-coded guidelines, promoting safe and effective temperature monitoring in both clinical and home settings.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Decreased efficiency of respiratory muscles can result in breathlessness at low exercise levels:
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Decreased efficiency of respiratory muscles can indeed lead to breathlessness even during low levels of exercise. When the respiratory muscles, such as the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, are weakened or not functioning optimally, they struggle to move air in and out of the lungs efficiently. This reduced efficiency can result in a sensation of breathlessness or shortness of breath, even when performing relatively mild physical activities.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Factors affecting body temperatures: (select all that apply)
- A.
Stress
- B.
Age
- C.
Hormones
- D.
Smoking
- E.
Height
Correct Answer(s)
A. Stress
B. Age
C. Hormones
D. SmokingExplanation
Body temperature can be influenced by various factors. Stress, age, hormones, and smoking can impact thermoregulation. Stress hormones like cortisol can elevate temperature, while age-related changes and hormonal fluctuations affect metabolic rate. Smoking affects blood flow and metabolism, indirectly influencing body temperature regulation. Height, however, does not directly affect body temperature.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The volume of the pulse refers to the ________________________.
- A.
Amount of blood pushing against the wall of the artery with each beat
- B.
Amount of beats that the heart exerts every time we breath
- C.
Amount of dubs that we hear every time we expire and inspire
- D.
Amount of blood that circulates through the cardio-pulmonary system
Correct Answer
A. Amount of blood pushing against the wall of the artery with each beatExplanation
The volume of the pulse represents the force exerted by blood against artery walls during each heartbeat. It reflects the strength of the heartbeat and the amount of blood ejected by the heart with each contraction. A stronger pulse indicates greater force and blood volume, providing valuable insights into cardiovascular function. Healthcare professionals assess pulse volume as part of monitoring vital signs, helping identify potential circulatory issues or changes in cardiac output. This measurement is crucial for understanding the efficiency of the heart's pumping action and overall cardiovascular health.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Considered the least accurate method of measuring temperature:
- A.
Axillary
- B.
Tympanic
- C.
Rectal
- D.
Oral
Correct Answer
A. AxillaryExplanation
The axillary temperature tends to be lower than oral or rectal temperatures because it is influenced by external factors, such as the surrounding air temperature.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Never measure both carotid pulses at the same time because excessive pressure may cause an occlusion of the blood supply to the brain.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
It is generally advised not to simultaneously measure both carotid pulses (the pulses in the carotid arteries in the neck) with excessive pressure, as this could potentially compress or occlude the arteries and disrupt blood flow to the brain.Rate this question:
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- 32.
A proper assessment of vital signs will allow a nurse to: (select all that apply)
- A.
Learn about human behavior.
- B.
Help evaluate the improvement of the patient's condition.
- C.
Implement planned interventions.
- D.
Identify nursing diagnosis.
Correct Answer(s)
B. Help evaluate the improvement of the patient's condition.
C. Implement planned interventions.
D. Identify nursing diagnosis.Explanation
B, C, and D are correct because vital signs can tell you a lot about a patient's condition. Based on their vital signs, you can diagnose and implement interventions. Vital signs, however, don’t explain a patient's personality or behavior, so answer choice A would not be correct.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Which of the following is true about temperature readings?
- A.
Axillary readings are 1 degree Fahrenheit higher than oral readings.
- B.
Rectal readings are 1 degree Fahrenheit lower than oral readings.
- C.
Axillary readings are 1 degree Fahrenheit lower than oral readings.
- D.
Rectal readings are 1 degree Fahrenheit higher than oral readings.
Correct Answer(s)
C. Axillary readings are 1 degree Fahrenheit lower than oral readings.
D. Rectal readings are 1 degree Fahrenheit higher than oral readings.Explanation
The closer to the core the reading is, the more accurate it will be.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Constant, remittent, and intermittent are classifications of:
- A.
Pain
- B.
Fever
- C.
Headache
- D.
Anxiety
Correct Answer
B. FeverExplanation
There are five types of fever: intermittent, remittent, continuous or sustained, hectic, and relapsing.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Upon admission, the most appropriate person to check on a patient's vital signs would be:
- A.
RN
- B.
LPN
- C.
PCT
- D.
CNA
Correct Answer
A. RNExplanation
Upon admission to a healthcare facility, the most appropriate person to check a patient's vital signs is typically a registered nurse (RN). These professionals are well-trained to perform this task accurately and interpret the results in the context of the patient's overall health.Rate this question:
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- 36.
The 5th vital sign:
- A.
Height and weight
- B.
Respiration
- C.
Body mass index
- D.
Pain
Correct Answer
D. PainExplanation
However, in recent years, pain has been recognized as a valuable and important "fifth vital sign" in certain healthcare settings. Pain assessment has become a standard practice in many clinical situations, and healthcare providers routinely ask patients to rate their pain on a scale (often on a scale of 0 to 10) to better understand and manage their discomfort.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Older adults have an increase in systolic pressure related to what?
- A.
Increased vessel flexibility
- B.
Decreased vessel elasticity
- C.
Enlarged vessel dexterity
- D.
Diminished vessel porosity
Correct Answer
B. Decreased vessel elasticityExplanation
The compliance of blood vessels, or their ability to expand and contract in response to changes in blood flow, decreases with age. This reduced compliance can lead to an increase in systolic blood pressure.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Which of the following statements about fever is not true?
- A.
Fever is a sign of illness.
- B.
It is the same as pyrexia or hyperthermia.
- C.
It is reflected through an increase in body temperature.
- D.
It does not do anything to defend the body.
Correct Answer
D. It does not do anything to defend the body.Explanation
Fever is a natural response of the body to infection, illness, or other physiological disturbances. It is not an ailment itself but rather a symptom of an underlying issue.Rate this question:
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- 39.
An instrument that is placed against a patient's chest to hear both lung and heart sounds.
- A.
Stethoscope
- B.
Sphygmomanometer
- C.
Otoscope
- D.
Telescope
Correct Answer
A. StethoscopeExplanation
A stethoscope is a medical device used by healthcare professionals to listen to internal sounds of the body, primarily the heart and lungs.Rate this question:
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- 40.
96.0 to 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit is the normal temperature range of which age group?
- A.
Toddler
- B.
Adolescent
- C.
Neonate
- D.
Adult
Correct Answer
D. AdultExplanation
The normal body temperature range of 96.0 to 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit (35.6 to 37.5 degrees Celsius) is typically considered normal for adults. This range is a general guideline for individuals aged 18 and older.Rate this question:
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Mar 20, 2024Quiz Edited by
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Feb 17, 2013Quiz Created by
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