If a patient becomes dizzy while performing orthostatic vital signs, what should you do?

• A. Take vitals while walking
• B. Notify physician without stopping
• C. Continue measurement
• D. Stop measurement and have them lie down

Answer: (D)

Dizziness during orthostatic vital signs signals a risk of decreased cerebral perfusion when the patient changes position, so the immediate priority is safety. Stop the measurement and have the patient lie down to prevent a fall and to help restore blood flow to the brain. Once the patient is supine and stable, you can reassess vitals and continue safely if appropriate. Taking vitals while standing or walking could cause a fall; continuing the measurement despite dizziness risks syncope; and simply notifying someone without stopping does not mitigate the immediate danger.