Florida Home Health Aide Competency Practice Test

If a patient's pulse drops significantly from 90 to 58 beats per minute, what should the aide do?

1. Inform the supervisor immediately

2. Wait 15 minutes and retake the pulse

3. Record it as normal

4. Let the patient know they are improving

The correct answer is: Inform the supervisor immediately

When a patient's pulse drops significantly from 90 to 58 beats per minute, it indicates a potential medical concern that requires immediate attention. Informing the supervisor is crucial because a significant change in vital signs can be a sign of underlying health issues or complications. The supervisor can then assess the situation further and determine the appropriate next steps, which may include contacting a nurse or physician. This action ensures that the patient receives timely medical evaluation and intervention if necessary, emphasizing the responsibility of the home health aide to monitor and report vital sign changes accurately. In any health care setting, especially in home health care, maintaining clear communication with supervisory staff is essential for patient safety.