A client's vital signs at the beginning of the shift are as follows: oral temperature 99.3°F (37°C), heart rate 82 beats/min, respiratory rate 14 breaths/min, and blood pressure 118/76 mm Hg. Four hours later, the client's oral temperature is 102.3°F (39.1°C). Based on the temperature change, the nurse should anticipate the client's heart rate would be how many beats/min?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Generally, for each 1°F increase in body temperature, the heart rate increases by about 10 beats per minute. The client's temperature increased by 3°F, so an increase of approximately 30 beats per minute from the original heart rate of 82 beats/min is expected, resulting in an anticipated heart rate of around 112 beats/min.

A Client's Vital Signs at the Beginning of the Shift