2.1.2 Vital Signs

Question 1

Homeostasis

Answer 1

The maintenance of stable internal physiological conditions (like body temperature or the pH of blood), which enables the optimal functioning of an organism.

Question 2

Pulse

Answer 2

The rhythmic expansion and recoil of arteries resulting from heart contraction. (100-60 bpm)

Question 3

Respiratory Rate

Answer 3

The number of breaths an organism takes per minute. (12-20 bpm)

Question 4

Blood Pressure

Answer 4

The pressure that blood exerts upon the walls of blood vessels, especially arteries, usually measured with a sphygmomanometer and expressed in millimeters of mercury.

Question 5

Tachycardia

Answer 5

A heart rate over 100 bpm.

Question 6

Bradycardia

Answer 6

A heart rate below 60 bpm

Question 7

Oxygen Saturation

Answer 7

Amount of oxygen in blood. (95-100)

Question 8

Systolic Pressure

Answer 8

The systolic pressure measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart undergoes systole (heart contracts to push blood throughout the body).

Question 9

Diastolic Pressure

Answer 9

The diastolic pressure measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart undergoes diastole (heart is at rest, allowing the chambers to fill with blood).

Question 10

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Answer 10

A nurse that performs basic medical tasks, including checking vital signs and feeding patients.

Question 11

Registered Nurse (RN)

Answer 11

A registered nurse is a nurse who has graduated or successfully passed a nursing program from a recognized nursing school and met the requirements outlined by a country, state, province or similar government-authorized licensing body to obtain a nursing license.

Question 12

Nurse Practitioner (NP)

Answer 12

A nurse who has advanced clinical education and training; they share most of their responsibilities with doctors.