Which vital sign reading indicates a potential change in Ms. Rails' condition during the assessment?

A blood pressure reading of 140/80 indicates a potential change in Ms. Rails’ condition because it reflects an elevation that may signal hypertension or other cardiovascular concerns. Blood pressure is a critical vital sign that provides insight into overall circulatory health and can signify responses to illness, medication, or physiological stress.

When assessing a patient, an increase in blood pressure can be particularly noteworthy if it deviates from their baseline readings. In contrast, normal heart rates, respiratory rates, and temperatures typically suggest that the patient is stable and do not immediately indicate a change in condition. The heart rate of 89 bpm is generally considered normal, as is the respiratory rate of 16 breaths per minute. Similarly, a temperature of 98.6 F falls within the normal range for body temperature. Therefore, the blood pressure reading stands out as a vital sign that signifies the need for closer evaluation and monitoring of Ms. Rails’ condition.