ATI Virtual Scenario: Vital Signs Study
Cards Questions and Answers | Latest
Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
What position should the arm be in when taking a blood pressure?
✔✔At heart level, supported, with the palm facing upward.
How should a nurse measure a radial pulse accurately?
✔✔Place the fingertips (not thumb) gently over the radial artery and count for 30 seconds if
regular, then double it.
What does a pulse oximeter measure?
✔✔It measures the percentage of oxygen saturation in the blood (SpO₂).
Why is it important to measure vital signs at consistent times?
✔✔To detect trends and changes in a patient's condition accurately.
What should a nurse do if a patient’s blood pressure reading is unusually high?
1
, ✔✔Recheck the reading after a few minutes, ensuring correct technique and positioning, then
notify the provider.
What is considered a febrile temperature for an adult?
✔✔A temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
Why is it important not to use a damaged blood pressure cuff?
✔✔A damaged cuff can give inaccurate readings and compromise patient safety.
What could cause an inaccurate pulse oximeter reading?
✔✔Cold fingers, nail polish, or poor circulation can interfere with accurate readings.
What is the purpose of assessing apical pulse in some patients?
✔✔To obtain a more accurate heart rate in cases of irregular rhythm or weak peripheral pulses.
What should a nurse assess first if a patient's oxygen saturation suddenly drops?
✔✔Check that the pulse oximeter is attached properly and the patient’s airway is clear.
2
Cards Questions and Answers | Latest
Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
What position should the arm be in when taking a blood pressure?
✔✔At heart level, supported, with the palm facing upward.
How should a nurse measure a radial pulse accurately?
✔✔Place the fingertips (not thumb) gently over the radial artery and count for 30 seconds if
regular, then double it.
What does a pulse oximeter measure?
✔✔It measures the percentage of oxygen saturation in the blood (SpO₂).
Why is it important to measure vital signs at consistent times?
✔✔To detect trends and changes in a patient's condition accurately.
What should a nurse do if a patient’s blood pressure reading is unusually high?
1
, ✔✔Recheck the reading after a few minutes, ensuring correct technique and positioning, then
notify the provider.
What is considered a febrile temperature for an adult?
✔✔A temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
Why is it important not to use a damaged blood pressure cuff?
✔✔A damaged cuff can give inaccurate readings and compromise patient safety.
What could cause an inaccurate pulse oximeter reading?
✔✔Cold fingers, nail polish, or poor circulation can interfere with accurate readings.
What is the purpose of assessing apical pulse in some patients?
✔✔To obtain a more accurate heart rate in cases of irregular rhythm or weak peripheral pulses.
What should a nurse assess first if a patient's oxygen saturation suddenly drops?
✔✔Check that the pulse oximeter is attached properly and the patient’s airway is clear.
2
