VITAL SIGNS – TAKE AND RECORD A RESIDENT’S PULSE & RESPIRATIONS

1) Perform hand hygiene.

a. Covers all surfaces of the hands with hand sanitizer.

b. Rub hands together to dry.

2) Explain the procedure to be performed to the resident.

3) Provide privacy for the resident; pull the privacy curtain.

4) Locate the radial pulse by placing the tips of fingers on the thumb side of the resident's wrist.

5) Count pulse for a full 60 seconds, or count for 30 seconds times two.

a. Must verbally tell the RN Test Observer if you are counting for 60 seconds or for 30 seconds times two.

b. Verbally tell the RN Test Observer when you start and stop counting.

6) Record the resident’s pulse rate on the provided, previously signed recording form.

7) The candidate's recorded pulse rate is within four (4) beats of the RN Test Observer’s recorded pulse rate.

8) Count respirations for a full 60 seconds, or count for 30 seconds times two.

a. Must verbally tell the RN Test Observer if you are counting for 60 seconds or for 30 seconds times two.

b. Verbally tell the RN Test Observer when you start and stop counting.

9) Record the resident’s respirations on the provided, previously signed recording form.

10) The candidate's recorded respiratory rate is within two (2) breaths of the RN Test Observer’s recorded respiratory rate.

11) Open the privacy curtain.

12) Maintain respectful, courteous interpersonal interactions at all times.

13) Place the call light or signaling device within easy reach of the resident.

14) Perform hand hygiene.

a. Cover all surfaces of the hands with hand sanitizer.

b. Rub hands together to dry.