How often should vital signs be reassessed in a stable patient?

In a stable patient, the standard practice is to reassess vital signs every 15 minutes. Reassessing vital signs at this interval allows healthcare providers to monitor any changes in the patient's condition without being unnecessarily intrusive, especially when the patient is stable. This frequency strikes a balance between ensuring patient safety and minimizing disruption, as more frequent assessments may not yield significant changes in a stable patient's vital signs. The broader context involves understanding that vital signs provide critical information about a patient's physiological status, and consistent monitoring is essential in timely detecting any deterioration, particularly in a clinical setting. The choice of 15 minutes reflects a standard practice often recommended in EMS protocols for stable patients.