Which vital sign is typically assessed first upon patient admission?

The first vital sign typically assessed upon patient admission is blood pressure. This is essential because it provides immediate insight into the patient's cardiovascular status and overall homeostasis. Blood pressure measurements help in quickly identifying conditions such as hypertension or hypotension, which can indicate serious health issues that need to be addressed promptly.

Establishing a baseline for blood pressure allows healthcare providers to monitor any changes over time, especially when administering medications or during a patient’s treatment plan. It can also alert the healthcare team to potential complications that may arise from certain medical conditions, guiding further assessment or intervention.

In contrast, while respiratory rate, pulse rate, and temperature are also important vital signs, they are typically assessed after blood pressure in the context of an admission assessment. Each vital sign contributes valuable information, but blood pressure often serves as a critical starting point for evaluating a patient's initial status.