NCLEX RN Simulated Exam Test Bank Related

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To accurately assess a patient's respiration rate, which of the following methods would be BEST?

  • A. Tell the patient, 'Please remain silent while I count your number of breaths.'
  • B. Count respirations at the same time you are counting the pulse rate
  • C. Count the pulse rate for one minute, then, while keeping your index fingers on the patient's radial artery, count the respirations for an additional minute.
  • D. Count the patient's respiration rate, then take the patient's temperature, and then take the pulse rate.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The most accurate method to assess a patient's respiration rate is to count the breaths simultaneously while counting the pulse rate. This approach ensures that the patient is unaware of the specific focus on their breathing, preventing any conscious alteration in breathing patterns. Choice A is incorrect because informing the patient may lead to altered breathing as the patient may consciously change their breathing pattern. Choice C involves counting the pulse rate first, which is not necessary for assessing respiration rate. Choice D is incorrect as it includes unnecessary steps such as taking the patient's temperature before counting respiration rate, which adds no value to accurately assessing the respiration rate.