Vitals Flashcards
Baseline Vitals
Pulse, Ventilations, Skin Color, Condition & Temperature, Capillary Refill, Pupils, Level of Consciousness, Blood Pressure
Pulse Rate
The number of heart beats per minute
Ventilation/Respiration Rate
The number of breaths (in and out) per minute
Factors that Can Affect Pulse and Ventilation Rate
Age, Physical Condition, Body Temperature, Exertion, Medical History, Medication/Drugs, Blood Loss, Stress, Fear
Pulse Locations
Radial, Carotid, Brachial, Dorsal Pedis, Posterior Tibial, Femoral, Popliteal
Normal Pulse Range: Adult
60-100
Normal Pulse Range: Adolescent
55-105
Normal Pulse Range: School Age Child
70-110
Normal Pulse Range: Toddler
80-130
Normal Pulse Range: Infant
100-160
How to Calculate Pulse Rate
Count the pulse rate for 30 seconds, multiply by 2
OR
Count the pulse rate for 15 seconds, multiply by 4
- If the pulse rate is irregular, count the pulse rate for a full minute to get an accurate reading
Pulse Descriptors
Rhythm (regular, irregular)
Quality (strong, bounding, weak/thready, absent)
Normal Ventilation Rate: Adult
10-24
Normal Ventilation Rate: Adolescent
12-20
Normal Ventilation Rate: School Age Child
20-30