Systolic pressure within the arteries when the heart beats; systole is the contraction phase of the cardiac cycle. Diaphoretic excessively sweaty. Commonly caused by exertion or a medical problem such as heart attack or shock. Baseline vital signs first set of vital signs obtained on a patient. Capillary refill time it takes for the capillaries to refill after being blanched. Normal capillary refill time is 2 seconds or less. Trending act of comparing three or more sets of signs and symptoms over time to determine if the patient’s condition is worsening, improving, or remaining the same. Symptom something the patient complains of or describes during the secondary assessment. OPQRST assessment tool mnemonic used as a reminder during a secondary assessment to help assess the patient’s chief complaint; the letters stand for onset, provocation, quality, region/radiate, severity, and time. Vital signs six most common signs used to evaluate a patient’s condition (respirations, pulse, blood pressure, skin, pupils, and mental status). Stethoscope device used to auscultate sounds within the body; commonly used to obtain blood pressure. SAMPLE history tool acronym used as a reminder in obtaining a patient history during the secondary assessment; SAMPLE stands for signs/symptoms, allergies, medications, past pertinent medical history, last oral intake, and events leading to the problem today. Sign something that can be observed or measured when assessing a patient. Pulse pulsation of the arteries felt with each heartbeat. Cyanotic describes bluish coloration of the skin caused by an inadequate supply of oxygen. Typically seen at the mucous membranes and nail beds. Blood pressure measurement of the pressure inside the arteries, during and between contractions of the heart. Jaundice medical condition that causes yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Typically caused by liver failure or obstruction of the bile duct. Mental status general condition of a patient’s level of consciousness and awareness. Diastolic pressure within the arteries when the heart is at rest; diastole is the resting phase of the cardiac cycle. Auscultation listening to internal sounds of the body, typically with a stethoscope. Palpation using one’s hands to touch or feel the body. Medical history previous medical conditions and events for a patient. Hypertension high blood pressure

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