Vital Signs, Oxygen, Chest Tubes, and Lines

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to vital signs, their assessment, and medical devices used in respiratory and circulatory care.

Homeostasis

The body's steady state maintained by adaptive responses that promote health and survival.

Vital Signs

Objective measurements of body functions including temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure.

Normal Body Temperature

The normal range for body temperature is 97.7°F to 99.5°F (approximately 36.5°C to 37.5°C).

Adult Pulse Rate

The normal pulse rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm).

Tachycardia

An elevated pulse rate greater than 100 beats per minute.

Bradycardia

A reduced pulse rate lower than 60 beats per minute.

Systolic Pressure

The pressure in the arteries during ventricular contraction; normal is less than 120 mm Hg.

Diastolic Pressure

The pressure in the arteries during ventricular relaxation; normal is less than 80 mm Hg.

Oxygen Therapy

Medical treatment using oxygen to correct hypoxemia and tissue hypoxia.

Endotracheal Tube

A tube inserted into the trachea to facilitate mechanical ventilation or oxygen delivery.

Thoracostomy Tube

A chest tube used to drain air or fluid from the pleural space, creating negative pressure.

Central Venous Line

A catheter inserted into a major vein to administer medication, fluids, or monitor pressures.

Hypothermia

A body temperature below the normal range of 97.7°F.

Hyperthermia

A body temperature above the normal range of 99.5°F.

Apnea

The absence of breathing.

Hypotension

Lower than normal blood pressure.

Hypertension

Higher than normal blood pressure, often asymptomatic and referred to as a 'silent killer'.

Pulse Oximeter

A device used to measure oxygen saturation levels in the blood.

Tidal Volume

The amount of air exchanged during normal breathing.

Respiratory Rate

The number of breaths taken per minute; normal adult rate is 12 to 20 breaths.