Vital Signs and First Aid

These flashcards cover vital signs, first aid procedures, and reporting important patient information.

What is the primary reason for measuring blood pressure manually with a cuff and stethoscope even if electronic devices are used?

To ensure competency in basic assessment skills.

What is the normal range for systolic blood pressure?

Less than 120 mm Hg.

Which pulse site is most commonly used for measuring an adult's heart rate?

Radial pulse.

What should you do if a patient's pulse oximetry reading is 90% or lower?

Inform the nurse and check capillary refill.

Name four methods to measure temperature.

Orally, aurally/tympanic, axillary, rectal.

What is classified as elevated blood pressure?

Systolic 120 to 129 mm Hg and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg.

What does a thready pulse indicate?

A difficult to detect or faint pulse.

How should you care for a patient experiencing a seizure?

Do not restrain them, remove harmful objects, and turn their head to the side after convulsions stop.

What does ABC stand for in emergency situations?

Airway, Breathing, Circulation.

What is the emergency response for a choking adult?

Perform the Heimlich maneuver.

What action should be taken if bleeding from a wound does not stop after several minutes of applying pressure?

Call for help.

What are the signs of shock that require immediate attention?

Rapid pulse, increased shallow breathing, blank stare, cold clammy skin.

What is the definition of edema?

Accumulation of fluid in a body part, area, or system.

How do you assess the severity of pitting edema?

By the depth of the indentation after pressing on the swollen area.

What indicates a possible wound infection?

Redness, swelling, warmth, increasing pain, fever, foul odor, drainage.

What should a patient do if they feel dizzy or faint?

Lie down and elevate their legs or sit with their head between their knees.

What is pyrexia?

A medical term for fever.

What should you report immediately to the nurse regarding a patient’s condition?

Cyanosis, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, changes in consciousness.