Florida Nursing Assistant Competency Pracrice Exam

What does it mean when a nurse asks for blood pressure to be taken STAT?

1. To take it within the next hour

2. To take it immediately without delay

3. To schedule it for later in the day

4. To take it at the end of the shift

The correct answer is: To take it immediately without delay

When a nurse asks for blood pressure to be taken STAT, it means that the reading should be taken immediately without delay. The term "STAT" originates from the Latin word "statim," which translates to "immediately." This indicates that the situation is urgent and requires prompt attention, often to assess a patient's condition quickly or to respond to a potential emergency. In a clinical setting, responding to a STAT request can be critical for ensuring patient safety and effective care, as timely information can significantly impact treatment decisions. The sense of urgency associated with the request demonstrates the importance of prompt communication among healthcare professionals to facilitate swift interventions when necessary.