The nurse is assessing the patient's respirations. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?

A) Inform the patient that she is counting respirations.
B) Do not touch the patient until completed.
C) Obtain without the patient knowing.
D) Estimate respirations.

Do not let a patient know that you are assessing respirations. A patient aware of the assessment can alter the rate and depth of breathing. Assess respirations immediately after measuring pulse rate, with your hand still on the patient's wrist as it rests over the chest or abdomen. Respirations are the easiest of all vital signs to assess, but they are often the most haphazardly measured. Do not estimate respirations.