Vital Signs and Body Functions

Front

Vital signs reflect the function of three body processes essential for life.

Back

- Regulation of body temperature - Breathing - Heart function

Front

The four vital signs of body function are:

Back

- Temperature - Pulse - Respirations - Blood pressure

Front

Some agencies consider additional factors as vital signs.

Back

Pain and oximetry (SpO2)

Front

A person’s vital signs vary within certain limits.

Back

Vital signs are measured to detect changes in normal body function.

Front

Vital signs tell about treatment response.

Back

They often signal life-threatening events.

Front

Vital signs are part of the assessment step in the nursing process.

Back

They help in evaluating a patient's condition.

Front

Measuring and Reporting Vital Signs

Back

Vital signs are measured during physical exams, when admitted to a health care agency, as often as the condition requires, before and after surgery, complex procedures, and diagnostic tests, after some care measures like ambulation, after a fall or injury, when drugs affect the respiratory or circulatory system, when there are complaints of pain, dizziness, light-headedness, feeling faint, shortness of breath, a rapid heart rate, or not feeling well, and as stated on the care plan.

Front

Vital signs show even minor changes in a person's condition.

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Accuracy is essential when measuring, recording, and reporting vital signs.

Front

Take vital signs with the person at rest.

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The person should be lying or sitting unless otherwise ordered.

Front

Report the following vital sign changes at once.

Back

Any change from a prior measurement, signs above or below the normal range.