What vital sign is typically measured first during patient assessments?

In patient assessments, temperature is often measured first because it provides important baseline information about the patient's overall health and can indicate the presence of infection or other medical conditions. Monitoring temperature is a quick way to assess the body's response to illness or stress, which can significantly influence the care plan. Taking the temperature early in the assessment allows healthcare providers to establish a point of reference for the patient's condition and makes it easier to interpret other vital signs later on. Additionally, temperature measurement is often non-invasive and can be done swiftly, allowing for a smooth flow in the assessment process. This prioritization ensures that any significant deviations from normal temperature can be addressed as soon as possible, which can be critical in acute or unstable patients.