West Coast EMT Block One Exam

Which factor is NOT commonly associated with affecting a 75-year-old patient's vital signs?

1. Medical conditions

2. Overall health

3. Medications

4. Increased weight

The correct answer is: Increased weight

In older adults, especially those around 75 years of age, certain factors significantly influence vital signs, including medical conditions, overall health, and medications. Medical conditions such as chronic diseases (e.g., heart disease, diabetes) can lead to variations in vital signs, like blood pressure and heart rate. Overall health is crucial, as it encompasses both the presence of illnesses and the general well-being of the patient, which can also impact vital sign readings. Additionally, the use of medications—common in older adults for managing chronic conditions—can have pronounced effects on vital signs; for example, certain antihypertensives can lower blood pressure, while some medications may increase heart rate. Increased weight is less commonly recognized as a direct factor influencing vital signs in this age group. While obesity may contribute to health issues that affect vital signs over time, it is not a primary or immediate factor impacting vital signs for a specific patient at that moment. Other variables, such as existing health conditions and treatments, typically play a more significant role in vital sign assessment for elderly patients.