How often should vital signs be taken for a stable patient? And for an unstable patient?

The correct approach for monitoring vital signs in patient care recognizes the differing needs of stable and unstable patients. For a stable patient, taking vital signs every 15 minutes is appropriate. This interval is frequent enough to detect any gradual changes in the patient's condition without being overly burdensome.

In contrast, for an unstable patient, a more frequent monitoring schedule is mandated, with vital signs required every 5 minutes. This is critical for identifying any sudden deterioration in the patient's condition promptly, allowing for immediate intervention if necessary.

This strategy underlines the importance of timely assessment and responsiveness in acute care settings, ensuring that healthcare providers can react swiftly to changes that may occur in patients who are not stable. The answer chosen reflects a standardized protocol aiming to balance the need for close monitoring without causing unnecessary distress to stable patients.