The nursing assistant is caring for a resident diagnosed with Down syndrome who suddenly develops a temperature of 101°F, pulse rate of 100, respiration rate of 28, blood pressure of 90/50 mm Hg. What is the priority action for the nursing assistant to take?

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The nursing assistant predicts that frequent respiratory tract infections are common among people with Down syndrome, due to muscle weakness (which affects the muscles used for breathing) and a compromised immune system. The vital signs are abnormal, and the observations should be reported to the nurse immediately. The nurse would assess the resident's lungs. Providing more fluids would help thin the mucous secretions and help replace fluids lost with fever, but would not be the priority action. The nursing assistant could examine the urine, but respiratory infections are more common than urinary tract infections.

The Nursing Assistant Is Caring for a Resident Diagnosed with Down