Which vital sign is typically measured first during an examination?

Temperature is typically measured first during an examination because it provides a quick assessment of a patient's baseline health status. It is a crucial vital sign that can indicate the presence of infection or other health issues. A fever, for example, suggests that the body is fighting an infection. By measuring temperature first, healthcare providers can determine if further immediate action is needed based on elevated readings.

In the context of a clinical setting, starting with temperature allows medical assistants to gather essential information that helps prioritize the patient’s care throughout the examination. Other vital signs, such as blood pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate, can vary based on many factors including the patient's activity level and stress. By establishing the temperature first, the healthcare provider can create context for the other measurements taken subsequently.