Which technique is correct when counting respirations in a conscious adult without making the patient change the breathing pattern?
Correct answer: B. Count chest movements while pretending to assess the pulse
- A. Tell the patient to breathe deeply for one minute
- B. Count chest movements while pretending to assess the pulse
- C. Ask the patient to hold the breath during counting
- D. Count only the inspirations for thirty seconds
Explanation
The nurse can continue holding the patient’s wrist after counting the pulse and discreetly observe chest or abdominal movements. Asking the patient to breathe deeply or hold the breath changes the usual respiratory pattern and reduces accuracy.
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About Vital Signs and Monitoring
Vital signs include temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and pain assessment. Coverage includes correct measurement sites and techniques, normal adult ranges, factors that alter readings, trends in patient observations, and the difference between an abnormal finding that needs reassessment and one requiring immediate reporting.
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