Vital Signs Flashcards
(59 cards)
Vital Signs
Temperature, Pulse, Respirations, and Blood Pressure.
Axillary Temperature normal reading:
T. 97.6 ax
Oral Temperature normal reading:
T. 98.6
Rectal Temperature normal reading:
T. 99.6 R
When do you clean the thermometer and with what?
Before and after use with an alcohol pad.
How and when to use a thermometer cover:
Always place a thermometer cover on the thermometer before use. Remove cover after use and discard.
How many times can you use a thermometer cover?
Thermometer covers are for one time use only.
How long should you wait to take a clients oral temperature if they have recently smoked, drank, or ate something?
You should wait at least 15 minutes before taking their oral temperature.
What are some contraindications for taking an oral temperature?
If the client is on O2, had recent oral surgery, too young, confused, combative, SOB, history of seizures or unconscious. When in doubt, consult the charge nurse.
What does hypothermia mean?
Low temperature
What does hyperthermia mean?
Elevated (high) temperature.
What are some contraindications for taking an axillary temperature?
Recent axillary surgery or trauma. When in doubt, consult the charge nurse
What are some contraindications for taking a rectal temperature?
Hemorrhoids, recent rectal surgery or rectal procedure, combative, confused, diarrhea, constipation, impaction, colostomy and heart disease. When in doubt consult the charge nurse.
What is considered the most accurate way to take a temperature?
The rectal temperature is considered the most accurate temperature.
What is considered the least accurate way to take a temperature?
The axillary temperature is considered the least accurate temperature.
Where is the radial pulse located?
The radial pulse is located in the wrist.
Where is the apical pulse located?
The apical pulse is located on the heart.
Where is the carotid pulse located?
The carotid pulse is located on the carotid artery on the neck.
Where is the brachial pulse located?
The brachial pulse is located on the bend of the arm.
How long do you take the pulse for?
You take the pulse for one full minute. Also note the rhythm and record.
When do you report a clients pulse to the charge nurse?
If it is irregular or weak and thready.
What is the normal pulse rate?
The normal pulse rate is: 60-100 beats per minute.
What does Bradycardia mean?
Slow pulse (less than 60 beats per minute). Report this to the charge nurse.
What does Tachycardia mean?
Fast pulse (more than 100 beats per minute). Report this to the charge nurse.