Vital Signs: Adult Assessment, Documentation, and Interpretation

what are vital signs?

measurements of the body’s basic functions, including temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure

what is the normal adult temperature range?

96.7-100.5 F

when should vital signs be assessed?

on admission, where there is a change in the client’s condition, before and after invasive procedures, and per facility policy

why is documentation of vital signs important in the EHR?

provides a baseline, identifies changes, supports clinical decision making, promotes patient safety, and creates a legal record

what does a temp >100.5 F indicate?

fever

what is the normal adult respiration rate range?

12-20 breaths per minute

what is dyspnea?

difficult/labored breathing often described as shortness of breath

what is the normal adult blood pressure range?

120/80 mmHg

what is the purpose of pulse oximetry?

to measure the percent of O2 saturation in the blood, with an expected range of 95%-100%

what factors can affect blood pressure readings?

age, weight, activity level, medications, and overall health

what is the significance of documenting vital signs?

it facilitates continuity of care and supports quality improvement and compliance

what are the routes for measuring body temp?

sublingual, tympanic, temporal, rectal, axillary

where is the most accurate body temp?

rectal

what are non-pharmacological interventions for hyperthermia?

cool sponge baths, increasing fluid intake, and using cooling blankets

what is the treatment priority for hypothermia?

rewarming the patient

what should be done if a patient exhibits signs of dysrhythmia?

report to provider immediately

what is the purpose of assessing pulse amplitude?

to describe the quality or fullness of a pulse

what does a pulse amplitude of +3 indicate?

https://o.quizlet.com/EukkRkjePmuGMbAs7PQSLQ.jpg

a bounding pulse