A client is seen running through the parking lot prior to their physical and wellness appointment at the clinic. What action should the nurse take in obtaining vital signs?

Choice A reason: Assessing vital signs immediately after exertion will give inaccurate results because the client’s heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate will be elevated due to physical activity. Choice B reason: Asking about pain while the machine evaluates blood pressure does not address the need for accurate baseline vital signs. Pain assessment is important but secondary to ensuring valid vital sign measurement. Choice C reason: Allowing time to relax and rest before assessing vital signs ensures accuracy. Vital signs should be taken when the client is at rest to reflect true baseline values, not transient changes from exertion. Choice D reason: Assessing blood pressure with legs crossed is incorrect technique. Crossing legs can artificially elevate blood pressure readings, leading to inaccurate results.