BP, pulse, Resp, temp, O2 saturation Flashcards
What are Vital Signs?
Are measures to assess basic body function.
Vital signs consist of?
blood pressure,tempature,respiratory rate,pulse,O2 saturation
Vital signs are taken to?
detect changes in normal body functions. They vary by age
When documenting Vital Signs take down…?
date/time ,measurement/numbers
When weighing at ct make sure to?
weigh them at the same time every day. Weigh before (ac) breakfast. use the same scale, to ensure the scale is balanced. weigh ct in the same amount of clothing, have pt empty their bladder (void) before weighing. Avoid weighing equipment like d/c bags
To convert Kgs to Lbs you?
multiply by 2.2
To convert Lbs to Kgs you?
divide by 2.2
For height you?
Record in inchs or cms depending on facility. ask ct to stand up straight the lower the bar so it slightly touchs ct’s head.
To obtain ht in bed you?
place a mark at the heel & top of head, measure b/w the 2. -have pt stretch out as much as possible.
Body temp is?
amount of heat in the body. Illness ups body temp. Should be measured in celsius.
To convert fahrenheit to celcius you?
subtract 32& divide by 1.8
To convert celcius to fahrenheit you?
multiply by 1.8 and add 32
Heat loss occurs by?
1) conduction: direct physical contact with an object.
2) convection-when body heat warms surrounding air.
3) Radiation-body heat warms surrounding object without physical contact.
4) Evaporation- perspiration changing a liquid to a vapour.
The 4 places to take a temp are?
1) rectal: not in PSW scope
2) oral- mouth, most common. things that can give a false reading: eating or drinking, chewing gum, smoking, if they are dead or unconcious.
3) Axilla(arm pitt)- least reliable, normal is 36.5
4) Tympanic (ear). Normal temp 37.4, for adults pull ear up & back (opposite for kids) kids down and forward.
Pulse is created as?
blood is pushed through the arteries. -you should not use your thumb to check a pulse.
