Vital Signs Flashcards
When you go to take VS
Identify self and identify the client with 2 identifiers
Order of VS checklist
Temp, pulse, respirations, BP
Check pt’s armband to
Corroborate name and DOB
Explain to pt
The purpose of what you are doing and time to complete
Normal adult temp range
96.8-99.5
When taking oral temp instruct pt to:
Close lips around the probe without biting it
How long must you wait to take an oral temp if client has just eaten, smoked, or drank anything
15-30 mins
When taking an oral temp you need to ask client when was the last time they
ate or drank anything
Pulse scale 0
No pulse
Pulse scale 1
Very weak
Pulse scale 2
Normal
Pulse scale 3
Stronger than expected
Pulse scale 4
Bounding
Tachycardia
Above normal pulse range
Bradycardia
Below normal pulse range
Why should you never use your thumb to check someone else’s pulse
Your thumb has its own pulse (yours)
Conditions where another pulse site is needed
Amputation, or pain where you were planning on taking the pulse
Count pulse for first assessment how long
1 full minute
Typical adult pulse range
60-100 BPM
Pulse rhythm’s
Regular and Irregular
When do you count respirations
While fingers are still in place for a radial pulse
How long should you count respirations
1 minute
What to identify when counting respirations
Rate and regular or irregular
Quality of respirations is called
Labored or Unlabored