Vital signs and reportingQuestion 1341 of 1700

How long should you wait to take an oral temperature after a resident chews gum or smokes?

  1. 5 minutes
  2. 1 minute
  3. 30 minutes
  4. 2 hours
Show answer

Correct answer: 5 minutes

For a hot or cold drink or food the wait is 15 to 25 minutes.

Source: Nursing Assistant (Reuter), 7.4: Obtaining Vital Signs

Practice vital signs and reporting

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026