Vital Signs Flashcards
What is the purpose of taking vital signs?
We take temperature to check for fever and hypothermia, and we take pulse and respiration to check the bodies physiological processes
Where should the thermometer be placed?
In the posterior sublingual pocket, inferior to the tongue, with the lips kept closed
What is the normal temperature range in adults?
35.8-37.3
What is the temperature for hyperthermia?
38 >
What is the temperature for hypothermia?
< 36
Where is the radial pulse taken?
Lateral to palmaris longus tendon, medial to radius bone, laterally, at the flexor aspect of wrist
What should you record when taking pulse?
Rate, rhythm and force
Interpret the force of pulse
+1 = weak, thready pulse
+2 = Normal, easy to detect
+3 = full bounding, difficult to obliterate
What is the normal range of pulse for adults?
60-100bpm
Why do we take the radial pulse?
To determine general health and fitness of the client
What is trachycardia?
Pulse rate over 100bpm
What is bradycardia?
Pulse rate under 60bpm
What is the normal respiratory rate for adults?
10-20 breaths/minute
