Indications for Taking Vital Signs in Acute Care

Which of the following criteria reflect an indication for vital signs to be taken within an acute setting? (Select all that apply.)

This multiple answers question relates to:

Differentiate the use of vital signs and early warning scores (EWS) in identifying and predicting potential clinical deterioration.

Select multiple answers

A) Six hours have passed since vital signs were last taken.

B) Four hours have passed since vital signs were last taken.

C) Handover is about to happen.

D) At the start of your shift, shortly following handover.

E) Mealtime is occurring within the next 30 minutes.

F) The patient has just been transferred to the ward from the ED.

G) Four hours after the patient has fallen asleep following surgery.

In an acute setting, vital signs are crucial for monitoring a patient's condition and identifying potential clinical deterioration. The following criteria reflect appropriate indications for taking vital signs:

C) Handover is about to happen.

• Vital signs should be taken to ensure accurate and up-to-date information is passed on to the next team.

D) At the start of your shift, shortly following handover.

• This ensures that the healthcare provider has a current understanding of the patient's status at the beginning of their shift.

F) The patient has just been transferred to the ward from the ED.

• Vital signs should be taken to establish a baseline and assess the patient's current condition after transfer.

G) Four hours after the patient has fallen asleep following surgery.

• Post-operative patients require close monitoring to detect any signs of complications or deterioration.

These criteria help ensure that vital signs are taken at critical times to monitor patient status effectively and respond promptly to any changes.