What is the advised frequency for monitoring vital signs in a stable patient?

Monitoring vital signs in a stable patient every 15 minutes is considered appropriate practice as it ensures regular checks without unnecessary frequency that could lead to patient disturbance. In stable patients, vital signs are typically expected to remain consistent, allowing healthcare providers to gather sufficient data to make informed decisions about ongoing care.

This interval strikes a balance, allowing for timely intervention if there are changes in the patient's condition while not being overly intrusive. More frequent monitoring, such as every minute or every 5 minutes, is reserved for unstable patients or situations where the patient's condition is expected to fluctuate significantly. Monitoring every 10 minutes might be seen as slightly excessive for a stable patient, as it could lead to unnecessary alarm or distraction from other aspects of patient care. Thus, the choice of 15 minutes aligns well with standard practices in monitoring stable patients.