Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Which vital sign is least likely to indicate a stable patient experiencing chest pain?

1. Blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg

2. Pulse rate of 40 beats/min

3. Respiratory rate of 22 breaths/min

4. Serum glucose level

The correct answer is: Pulse rate of 40 beats/min

A pulse rate of 40 beats per minute is considered bradycardia, which can be a sign of an unstable condition, especially in the context of a patient experiencing chest pain. In adults, a normal heart rate typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. A pulse rate this low may indicate significant underlying issues such as heart block, myocardial infarction, or other cardiac dysrhythmias, all of which could compromise the patient's stability. The other vital signs presented do not indicate the same level of concern. A blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg falls within a generally acceptable range, although it reflects a slightly elevated diastolic pressure that may not pose an immediate risk. A respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute, although on the higher end of normal, could simply indicate mild anxiety or pain rather than a severe underlying problem. Serum glucose level, while important in different contexts, does not directly reflect the immediate stability of a patient experiencing chest pain. In summary, the bradycardic pulse rate is inherently more concerning in this scenario, as it directly affects the cardiac output and overall perfusion, making it the vital sign least likely to indicate a stable patient.