If a victim involved in a shooting is determined to be unstable, how often should their vitals be rechecked?

In situations where a victim is determined to be unstable, particularly after a shooting or any significant traumatic injury, it is crucial to closely monitor their vital signs. Checking their vitals every 5 minutes allows for timely detection of any changes in their condition that may necessitate immediate medical intervention. Unstable patients can deteriorate rapidly, and frequent monitoring ensures that any critical changes—such as fluctuations in heart rate, blood pressure, or respiration—are quickly identified. This vigilance can be lifesaving, as it provides healthcare providers with the necessary data to make informed decisions about ongoing treatment and intervention.

Options that suggest longer intervals, such as 10, 15, or 20 minutes, may not offer the appropriate level of scrutiny for an unstable patient. These longer intervals could result in missed opportunities to address quickly worsening conditions, underscoring the importance of a 5-minute recheck in urgent medical scenarios.