The nurse is preparing to measure the vital signs of a 6-month-old infant. Which action by the nurse is correct?
a. Respirations are measured; then pulse and temperature.
b. Vital signs should be measured more frequently than in an adult.
c. Procedures are explained to the parent, and the infant is encouraged to handle the equipment.
d. The nurse should first perform the physical examination to allow the infant to become more familiar with her and then measure the infant's vital signs.
ANS: A
With an infant, the order of vital sign measurements is reversed to respiration, pulse, and temperature. Taking the temperature first, especially if it is rectal, may cause the infant to cry, which will increase the respiratory and pulse rate, thus masking the normal resting values. The vital signs are measured with the same purpose and frequency as would be measured in an adult.
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