Patient Intake and Vitals Flashcards
(25 cards)
What is the primary focus in the ambulatory care setting?
Maximizing the safety of patients and staff to prevent injury and avoid litigation.
What types of environmental emergencies should be planned for?
Fires and natural disasters.
What should be identified to protect human life during emergencies?
Emergency policies and evacuation plans.
What special considerations should be taken for vulnerable populations during emergencies?
Pay particular attention to children, older adults, and patients requiring accommodations.
What are common hazards children face in clinical settings?
- Falls
- Injuries involving sharp objects
- Choking on small items
- Touching electrical outlets
What precautions should be taken to prevent a child from falling?
Maintain visual and physical contact with patients until they return to their parent or guardian.
What features should restrooms have to enhance patient safety?
- Handrails
- Emergency alert buttons
How should blood pressure be measured?
With the patient in a sitting position using a sphygmomanometer and stethoscope or electronically.
What are the two key pressure readings in blood pressure measurement?
Systolic and diastolic pressure.
What are Korotkoff sounds?
Distinct sounds heard throughout the cardiac cycle during blood pressure measurement.
What can improperly sized blood pressure cuffs affect?
Systolic and diastolic pressure readings by up to 6.9 mm Hg.
How can the position of the arm influence blood pressure readings?
If the arm is above heart level, the reading is lowered; if below, the reading is elevated.
What is the palpatory method used for?
To check systolic pressure in emergencies when auscultation is not possible.
How is the palpatory method executed?
Inflate the cuff until the radial pulse disappears, then add 30 mm Hg more inflation.
What should be documented if the palpated systolic pressure is 104 mm Hg?
104/P, with P indicating the systolic reading was palpated.
What factors can cause variations in blood pressure readings?
- Age
- Internal conditions
- External influences
- Genetics
What is the role of the medical assistant in patient assessment?
To obtain information, document it, and report abnormal findings to the provider.
What initial measurements should be recorded during patient preparation?
- Anthropometric measurements
- Vital signs
- Chief complaint
Why is it important to document intake information clearly?
To alert the provider of any abnormal results prior to them seeing the patient.
What should be done if a vital sign is abnormal?
Report it to the provider along with any possible explanation.
What should be considered before taking vital signs?
Give time for the patient to rest and recover.
True or False: Pediatric vital signs have the same normal ranges as adult vital signs.
False
What should you record when you hear the first sound while checking a patient’s blood pressure?
Systolic
