Abnormal vital signs are considered abnormal when:

• A. A single elevated respiratory rate after exercise
• B. Accelerated heart and respiratory rates confirmed by two sets of vitals taken five minutes apart
• C. Normal vitals in a resting patient
• D. Elevated pulse after walking for a minute

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that abnormal vital signs should be confirmed with repeat measurements, not judged from a single reading. When both heart rate and respiratory rate remain elevated on two separate checks five minutes apart, it shows a sustained abnormal state rather than a momentary fluctuation. This approach helps rule out temporary factors like recent activity, anxiety, or a transient measurement error. A single elevated rate after exercise can be normal for that moment, a normal resting patient isn’t abnormal, and a brief increase in pulse after a short walk may reflect exertion rather than a persistent problem. So requiring two measurements five minutes apart to confirm the abnormality makes this option the best choice.