Question

Review the necessary steps to obtaining an accurate and proper record of vital signs. Discuss the impact of patient comfort and equipment on getting the vital signs effectively.

Answer 1

Vital signs assists in measurements of inner workings of the body

The vital signs that need to be to monitored are:

• Heart Rate (Pulse)
• Respiration Rate
• Body Temperature
• Blood Pressure

For measurement of heart rate:

1.Washing of hands.

2. The individual should be at rest before measurement begin.

3.The important and accurate area to get pulse is to measure radial artery found on the inside of the wrist closest to the thumb. Alternatively, inside of the elbow (brachial artery), behind the knee (popliteal artery) or neck (carotid artery).

4.first and second fingertips (never the thumb) must be used firmly but gently on the wrist (or otherwise) until pulse can be identified.

5.With an analog clock or watch, wait until the second hand is on the 12.

6.counting the pulse.

7.Count pulse for 60 seconds until the second-hand returns to the 12

8. concentrate on the beats of the pulse instead of watching the clock

Respiration rate measurement

1.ckean the hands

2. fingers are placedoplaced the individual’s wrist (either side).

3.Count breaths (inhale + exhale = 1 respiration) for one minute.

4.measure the respiration rate

Measurement of body temperature

1.Hands should be cleaned free of dirt

2. The mouth tip should be covered with a clean plastic shield

3.set the thermometer.

4.keep thermometer under tongue and the individual has to close mouth.

5.Wait several minutes, remove thermometer when beeping sounds

6.Document temperature, including the date, time and method used as follows: “O” for oral, “R” for rectal, “E” for ear, “A” for axillary.

For Blood pressure measurement

1.clean the hands

2.Disinfect stethoscope earpieces and diaphragm .

3.Check to have an idea that blood pressure device is in good working condition

4. fingers to be placed underside the elbow to locate pulse (called the brachial pulse).

5.Wrap and fasten deflated cuff snugly around the upper arm at least one inch above brachial pulse felt

6.keep stethoscope earpieces and position diaphragm over the brachial pulse.

7.Turn the knob on the air pump to close the valve.

8.Pump air, inflating the arm cuff till dial pointer reaches 170.

9.Gently turn the knob on the air pump counter-clockwise to open the valve and deflate the cuff.

10.As the dial pointer falls, watch the number and listen for a thumping sound.

11.Note the number shown indicating (systolic pressure) by first thump.

12. Note the last thump indicating diastolic pressure.

13. Finally remove the cuff and document.

For accurate readings, the person not smoke, drink coffee, or exercise vigorously within 30 minutes before taking vitals. Don’t be shy about taking multiple readings a few minutes apart – be sure to write down all of the results. And don’t forget to record the date and time along with any other important details.

Always clean hands before and after engaging with an patient for vitals measurements. As well, ensure that all supplies are cleaned and sanitized properly.