Vitals Flashcards
What are vital signs?
Vital signs are measurements of the body’s basic functions, including pulse, respiratory rate, temperature, and blood pressure.
How is pulse measured?
Pulse is measured by palpating the radial pulse and assessing for rate, rhythm, and amplitude (strength).
Normal adult resting pulse rate is 60-100 bpm.
How long should you assess the radial pulse?
Assess for 30 seconds or longer (1 minute) if the rhythm is irregular.
What is the normal adult respiratory rate (RR)?
The normal adult respiratory rate is 16-20 breaths per minute.
How is respiratory rate counted?
Respiratory rate is counted while palpating the patient’s radial pulse.
Count for 30 seconds or longer (1 minute) if the rate is outside normal.
What is the normal adult temperature range?
Normal adult temperature lies between 36.6 and 37 degrees Celsius.
How do you measure temperature?
Put a disposable thermometer cover over the probe, place it under the tongue, and have the lips closed. Watch for a reading for 10 seconds and repeat if outside normal range.
How is blood pressure measured?
Palpate the brachial artery, apply the cuff centered over the artery, and estimate systolic pressure by palpating the radial pulse while inflating the cuff until the pulse is not felt.
Take note of palpatory systolic pressure.
What indicates systolic and diastolic blood pressure?
The first beat or Korotkoff sound indicates systolic BP, while the disappearance of sounds indicates diastolic BP.
What is the optimal adult blood pressure?
Optimal adult blood pressure is <120/80 mmHg.
What is considered a normal to high range for blood pressure?
A blood pressure of 139/89 mmHg is considered normal to high range.
