Which statement best describes the typical sequence of assessments in this material?

• A. Vital signs are taken after the general survey
• B. The ROS is never documented
• C. The general survey is omitted
• D. A&Ox3 is assessed only after vital signs

Answer: (A)

The main idea is the order in which a routine physical is performed. In a standard exam, you first observe the patient to form a general impression—the general survey. This quick, qualitative check looks at appearance, behavior, distress, and overall condition. After that initial observation, you obtain vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, and oxygen saturation) to quantify the patient’s physiologic status in the context of what you’ve just seen.

The ROS is part of the history and is documented as part of the interview, not omitted from the record. The general survey is not skipped, because it provides essential context for interpreting later findings. Mental status, such as A&Ox3, is evaluated early in the exam—often during or right after the general survey—rather than being reserved only for after vitals.

So the statement that vital signs are taken after the general survey reflects the typical sequence.