CH 3: Patient Intake Vitals

Normal body temperature range for adults?

97.8°F - 99.1°F

Normal pulse range for adults?

60 - 100 bpm

Normal respiration rate for adults?

12 - 20 breaths per min

Normal blood pressure range for adults?

Less than 120/80 mmHg

The systolic blood pressure represents what?

The pressure when the heart CONTRACTS (top number)

The diastolic blood pressure represents?

The pressure when the heart relaxes (bottom number)

What is the normal oxygen saturation (SpO₂) range?

95% - 100% (values below 90% are critical)

What is BMI and how is it calculated?

Body Mass Index
Formula : Weight (kg) / Height (m²)

A BMI of 18.5 - 24.9 is classified as what?

Normal weight

What pulse sites are commonly used by a MA?

Radial (wrist), Carotid (neck), Brachial (arm), Apical (heart)

How do you count a pulse using the 30-second method?

Count beats for 30 seconds then multiply by 2

5 methods of measuring body temperature?

Oral, Axillary (armpit), Rectal, Tympanic (ear), Temporal artery (forehead)

What is the pain scale range & what do the numbers mean?

0-10
0 - No pain

10 - Worst pain possible

When should you report a patient’s temperature?

OVER 100.4°F or UNDER 96.8°F

When should SpO^₂ level be reported stat?

Under 92% or any rapid drops

3 steps of exam room setup?

1.) Wipe down everything

2.) Check equipment functions

3.) Stock essential supplies

What blood pressure readings require reporting?

Anything OVER 140/90 or UNDER 90/60

What factors can affect oxygen saturation readings?

Cold hands, nail polish/fake nails, poor circulation, and movement

What measurements are taken during infant & child assessments?

Weight, length, head & chest circumference (plotted on growth charts)

What is the “Know Your Limits” principle for MAs?

Stay within training & legal boundaries, document appropriately, ask supervisors when unsure