CNA exams require that the student understands the importance of vital signs and how to take and record them. Most classes will teach students the basics and allow them time to practice on one another until they are confident enough to pass the test but more importantly perform them on the patients. Keeping close track of blood pressure and heart rate may mean the difference of life and death in an emergency situation requiring the student to keep a cool head while performing these critical duties.
Most people preparing for CNA exams have had their vital signs routinely taken when visiting a doctor’s office without thinking twice about it. Blood pressure, respiration rate, height, weight, pulse and temperature are all used to measure the overall health of a patient. Learning these skills will help students monitor the residents and patients in the facilities where they are employed.
When taking body temperature for a CNA exam the student may be required to use either an electronic thermometer or a tympanic one. Mercury thermometers are no longer commonly used due to the risks from the mercury itself. Students need to recognize the differences in body temperature norms which are associated with oral, rectal, axillary and tympanic readings. Following all procedures from the beginning five, hand washing, taking readings, and the steps in the ending five must be adhered to when taking temperatures as well as other vital signs.
The pulse rate may be found along arteries which are close to the skin including the neck and wrist. Caregivers will be trained to find an artery and count the pulse, however it is easiest and the most reliable to use a stethoscope to do so. CNA classes will teach the student what is considered to be within normal range and what type of problems to look for and report.
The respiration rate is normally counted by the assistant right after they have finished counting the pulse rate without the patient even being aware it is being checked.
Knowing how to accurately read blood pressure is necessary for anyone taking the CNA exam as it will be used extensively. Having too small or large of a blood pressure cuff will create an incorrect reading. Activities and medications may affect the readings as well, with some being temporary such as just finishing an activity and others, particularly medicines, creating a long term effect.
Students preparing for their CNA exams will be taught normal ranges of vital signs and what to watch for while taking them. Learning to report anything that seems out of the ordinary is important for the health of the patient. This is a very important aspect of the training and practicing prior to the test will help students master the skills.