Vital Signs and Measurements

This set of flashcards covers key terminology and concepts regarding vital signs and measurements, useful for exam preparation in a medical context.

Vital Signs

Indicators of a person's essential bodily functions, including temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure.

Aseptic Technique

Practices aimed at preventing contamination and infections, such as hand washing.

Factors Influencing Vital Signs

Various elements such as activity level, emotional state, and certain medications that may affect measurements of vital signs.

Hypertension

Consistently high blood pressure, often requiring monitoring and management.

Hypotension

Consistently low blood pressure, which can result in dizziness and fainting.

Korotkoff Sounds

The sounds indicated during the measurement of blood pressure, observed as the cuff is deflated.

Apical Pulse

The pulse taken at the apex of the heart, usually measured using a stethoscope for accuracy.

Eupnea

Normal breathing pattern, characterized by regular rhythm and depth.

Tachycardia

Increased heart rate, generally defined as over 100 beats per minute.

Bradycardia

Decreased heart rate, generally defined as under 60 beats per minute.

Cheyne-Stokes Respiration

A type of abnormal breathing pattern characterized by cycles of deep and shallow breaths.

Body Temperature Regulation

Managed by the hypothalamus, which balances heat production and heat loss in the body.

Body Measurement Influences

Factors like clothing and posture that may affect the accuracy of height and weight measurements.

Temperature Measurements

Body temperature can be measured using various methods such as oral, rectal, tympanic, and temporal artery thermometers.

Cross-Contamination

The transfer of pathogens between patients during clinical procedures, which is prevented by aseptic techniques.

Weight Conversion

To convert pounds to kilograms, divide by 2.2; to convert kilograms to pounds, multiply by 2.2.

Abnormal Vital Signs

Any readings of vital signs that deviate from the accepted normal ranges, indicating potential health concerns.

Peak Flow Meter

A device used to measure how fast air comes out of the lungs, often used for asthma patients.

Pulse Oximeter

A non-invasive device that measures the oxygen saturation of the blood.

Sphygmomanometer

An instrument used to measure blood pressure, which can be manual (mercury or aneroid) or automatic (digital).

Respiratory Rate

The number of breaths taken per minute, indicative of respiratory function.

Standard Precautions

A set of guidelines designed to prevent infection and control the spread of disease.