Core PO3 - Physiological measurments Flashcards
Define blood pressure.
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the arteries walls.
What is the normal range for a blood pressure?
90 - 120 / 60 - 80
What is blood pressure measured in?
mmHg (millimetres of mercury).
What equipment do you use to take a manual blood pressure?
A stethoscope and a sphygomometer.
What is the normal range for body temperature?
36.0 - 37.5 degrees celsius.
What equipment do you use to take a temperature?
A thermometer.
What is the normal range for respiratory rate?
12-20 BPM (breaths per minute).
What is the normal range for heart rate?
60-100 BPM (beats per minute).
How do you measure heart rate?
By resting your finger on pulse points or using a pulse oximeter.
What is the healthy range for a BMI?
18.5 - 24.9
What does BMI stand for?
Body mass index.
How do you calculate BMI?
Weight in pounds (squared) / height in inches x 703
What is the normal range for urinary output?
800-2000ml daily.
What is oxygen saturation?
The amount of haemoglobin that binds to oxygen in the blood, forming oxyhaemoglobin.
What is the normal range for oxygen saturation?
95-100%
What equipment do you use to measure oxygen saturation?
A pulse oximeter.
If needed it can be used on a persons ear lobe.
What is the normal range for blood glucose levels?
4.0 - 7.0
This differs in people with diabetes.
What can affect blood glucose levels?
Readings can fluctuate if the person has diabetes or due to the distance of time between taking the measurement and eating.
How do you measure blood glucose levels?
Penetrate the skin with a spring loaded lancet to produce a blood droplet from the surface capillaries.
Touch the glucose test strip to the finger tip and insert the strip into the glucometer.
The glucose level is displayed in seconds.
When are physiological measurements taken and why?
• Upon arrival to look for early warning signs.
• At regular intervals to observe deterioration or improvement in condition.
• Before, during and after a surgery or procedure to monitor condition.
• During sleep if the individual has sleep apnea.
What is sleep apnea?
When breathing temporarily stops while the individual sleeps.
It is good practice to monitor the persons respiratory rate and oxygen saturation.
Anaesthesia adds to the risks associated with sleep apnea.
In what ways can equipment be maintained?
• Follow the manufacturers instructions of storage and use.
• Check for signs of wear and tear before and after use.
What should you do if you notice a faulty piece of equipment?
• Take it out of practice.
• Label it as faulty.
• Report it to your line manager.
• File a written report.
What is the range for an elevated blood pressure?
120 - 129 / below 80