Which vital sign indicates Arnold Cohen is experiencing fever?

Which vital sign indicates Arnold Cohen is experiencing fever?

• A. Blood pressure 139/67 mm Hg
• B. Heart rate 104/min
• C. Temperature 38.6° C (101.5° F)
• D. Respiratory rate 28/min

Answer: (C)

The correct indication of fever in Arnold Cohen's case is a temperature of 38.6° C (101.5° F). Normal body temperature typically ranges from about 36.1° C to 37.2° C (97° F to 99° F). When the body temperature rises above this range, it is classified as fever. The value of 38.6° C clearly exceeds the normal limit, signifying that the patient is likely experiencing an infectious process or inflammatory response. Monitoring temperature as a vital sign is critical for assessing a patient's health status, particularly in emergency situations, as it can indicate the body's response to infection or other medical conditions. The other vital signs mentioned—blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate—can provide additional context about a patient's condition, but they do not specifically indicate the presence of fever.

The correct indication of fever in Arnold Cohen's case is a temperature of 38.6° C (101.5° F). Normal body temperature typically ranges from about 36.1° C to 37.2° C (97° F to 99° F). When the body temperature rises above this range, it is classified as fever. The value of 38.6° C clearly exceeds the normal limit, signifying that the patient is likely experiencing an infectious process or inflammatory response.

Monitoring temperature as a vital sign is critical for assessing a patient's health status, particularly in emergency situations, as it can indicate the body's response to infection or other medical conditions. The other vital signs mentioned—blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate—can provide additional context about a patient's condition, but they do not specifically indicate the presence of fever.