How often should you reassess a patient during transport who has rectal bleeding and altered mentation?

In cases of rectal bleeding and altered mentation, frequent reassessment of the patient is critical due to the potential for rapid changes in their condition. Altered mentation can indicate a variety of serious issues, including shock or significant blood loss, which requires quick identification and intervention.

Reassessing every 5 minutes allows for timely monitoring of vital signs, level of consciousness, and any changes in the patient's condition. This interval helps ensure that any deterioration can be quickly recognized and addressed, thereby improving patient outcomes. Consistent reassessment can also guide treatment decisions, such as the need for fluid resuscitation or advanced interventions.

While longer intervals might still provide some monitoring, they could delay detection of critical changes. In emergencies like this, immediate action can be pivotal, making more frequent assessments the best practice.