Which vital signs are crucial to monitor during patient transportation?

Monitoring vital signs during patient transportation is critical for assessing the patient's condition and ensuring their safety throughout the transfer process. The vital signs that are essential include heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation.

Heart rate provides insight into the cardiovascular status of the patient; any significant deviations can indicate distress or changes in their condition. The respiratory rate is similarly vital, as it reflects respiratory function and oxygenation status. Blood pressure is another key indicator of a patient’s circulatory system and overall stability; abnormal readings can signify hemorrhage or shock. Lastly, oxygen saturation gives an immediate assessment of how well the blood is carrying oxygen, which is crucial for any patient in distress or with respiratory issues.

While body temperature, mental status, and other metrics indicated in the other choices provide valuable information, they are not as immediate or critical for monitoring during transportation. For instance, weight and height are relevant for medication dosing but do not directly indicate a patient's immediate medical condition. Monitoring vital signs helps in making prompt decisions, ensuring interventions can be applied if necessary.