Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam 2025 - Free PCT AAH Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct answer is respiration. Monitoring respiration involves observing and assessing both the inhalation (breathing in) and exhalation (breathing out) of air. This vital sign is crucial because it provides valuable information about a person's respiratory function and overall health status.

When measuring respiration, healthcare providers typically count the number of breaths a person takes in one minute, noting the rhythm, depth, and quality of the breaths. Abnormalities in respiration can indicate various health issues, such as respiratory distress, infection, or other underlying conditions.

Temperature, pulse, and blood pressure do not involve the measurement of breathing patterns and are distinct vital signs that reflect different aspects of physiological health. Temperature assesses body heat, pulse measures heart rate and rhythm, and blood pressure gauges the force of blood against the artery walls, each providing unique insights into a patient’s condition.