Vital Signs
What is the normal range for adult respiratory rate?
12–20 breaths per minute
What does ADDS stand for?
Adult Deterioration Detection System
What should you do first when you identify a new ADDS score of 7?
Notify nurse in charge and initiate MET call
Name one neurological sign of deterioration.
Confusion or reduced consciousness
A patient’s RR is 24, SpO₂ 94%, HR 110, BP 100/60, Temp 37.2°C, conscious. What’s the likely ADDS score?
Score: 2 (1 for RR, 1 for HR)
What is considered a normal adult blood pressure?
Around 120/80 mmHg
What score requires an immediate MET call?
ADDS score ≥ 8
Who do you notify for an ADDS score of 1–3?
Primary RN or nurse in charge
What is an early cardiovascular sign of shock?
Tachycardia
A patient has an ADDS score of 5. What should be your action?
Notify nurse in charge and escalate to MO for review
What pulse rate would be considered low?
Less than 60 bpm
How often do you monitor a patient with an ADDS score of 2?
Every 30 minutes
What documentation must accompany a MET call?
Completed ADDS chart and clinical notes
What respiratory sign may indicate impending arrest?
Bradypnea or severe dyspnea
After giving oxygen, SpO₂ improves from 87% to 93%. Does ADDS scoring change?
Yes, oxygen use increases ADDS score
What is the normal range for oxygen saturation?
95–100%
Which vital signs are included in the ADDS chart?
RR, SpO₂, HR, BP, Temp, Consciousness
If a patient’s consciousness drops suddenly, what’s your immediate action?
Check airway, call for help, escalate
What skin sign might indicate poor perfusion?
Pale, cool, clammy skin
A patient scores 0 on all vitals but is drowsy and confused. What should you do?
Escalate – neurological change warrants review
What temperature is classified as a fever?
Above 38°C
What ADDS score range requires escalation to the nurse in charge and MO review within 30 mins?
Score of 4–6
What system or communication tool should be used to escalate deterioration?
ISOBAR or direct MET call (can exclude ISOBAR if not used in your session)
What’s the earliest behavioral clue to deterioration?
Restlessness or agitation
A patient's ADDS score jumps from 3 to 7 within 30 minutes. What does this indicate?
Rapid deterioration – urgent MET response needed