In patient documentation, the abbreviation VS stands for which of the following?

• A. Volume Status
• B. Vital Signs
• C. Visual Scale Standard
• D. Vital Signs Assessment

Answer: (B)

VS stands for vital signs. These are the essential measurements that show how the body is functioning at a moment in time: heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, body temperature, and oxygen saturation. In patient documentation, VS is a quick label indicating those values have been checked and recorded, and they’re used to monitor stability and detect changes. Volume status refers to hydration and fluid balance, which is a different concept; Visual Scale Standard isn’t a recognized term in this context; and a vital signs assessment would typically involve noting the actual values rather than using VS to denote the assessment itself.