p.11
Body Temperature Regulation
What are the core temperature assessment sites?
Tympanic (eardrum) membrane.
p.16
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What does pulse equality assess?
Whether the characteristics are the same between pulse points.
p.15
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
Where is the posterior tibial pulse found?
On the inside of the ankle.
p.3
Body Temperature Regulation
What are the common units used to measure temperature?
Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Kelvin.
p.25
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
How should the respiratory rate (RR) be measured?
For a full minute and ensure the patient is not aware.
p.7
Body Temperature Regulation
What regulates core body temperature?
The thermoregulatory centre in the hypothalamus.
p.13
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is a pulse?
A wave of pressure through an artery wall that follows each contraction of the left ventricle of the heart.
p.16
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What does the pulse rate indicate?
The number of beats per minute.
p.3
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
What can cause variations in body temperature?
Factors such as time of day, activity level, and hormonal changes.
p.21
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What are ventilations?
The process of inhaling and exhaling air.
p.3
Body Temperature Regulation
What is temperature a measure of?
The average kinetic energy of particles in a substance.
p.31
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What does the receiving probe in a pulse oximeter detect?
The amount of red and infrared light that has not been absorbed by the blood.
p.4
Body Temperature Regulation
What is body temperature?
The heat of the human body.
p.22
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What does a change in breathing indicate?
It could indicate allergic reactions, hypoxaemia, cardiac issues, anxiety, or nothing at all.
p.10
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
What factors can cause variations in body temperature measurements?
The site and equipment used to measure the temperature.
p.36
Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
What does vascular resistance refer to?
The opposition to blood flow through the arteries.
p.42
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
Why is the correct blood pressure cuff size important?
Using the correct cuff size ensures accurate blood pressure readings.
p.33
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What is blood pressure?
The force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels.
p.12
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is a normal resting pulse rate for adults?
Typically between 60 to 100 beats per minute.
p.33
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What are the two measurements of blood pressure?
Systolic and diastolic pressure.
p.41
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
Which limb should be avoided for blood pressure monitoring if it has an IV infusion?
The limb with IV infusion.
p.33
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What does systolic pressure represent?
The pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.
p.19
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the normal pulse rate for adolescents to adults?
60-100 beats per minute, with an approximate average of 80.
p.42
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What is the standard cuff size for adults?
The standard cuff size is typically 12 x 23 cm.
p.24
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is the normal respiratory rate range for an adult?
12-20 breaths per minute.
p.44
Orthostatic Hypotension Assessment
Why is postural hypotension significant in elderly patients?
It is a significant risk factor for unwitnessed falls.
p.6
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
What is the significance of humidity in heat loss?
High humidity reduces the effectiveness of evaporation, leading to less heat loss.
p.7
Body Temperature Regulation
What is the role of the hypothalamus in body temperature regulation?
It maintains core body temperature within a constant range.
p.13
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What happens with each heartbeat?
The heart pumps an amount of blood (stroke volume) into the ascending aorta.
What are vital signs?
Vital signs are measurements that indicate the state of a person's essential body functions.
p.14
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
How should you position your fingers when assessing pulse?
Use the pads of your first three fingers to lightly compress the artery.
p.19
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the normal pulse rate for a newborn to 1 month old?
120-160 beats per minute, with an approximate average of 140.
p.21
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is the normal respiratory rate for adults?
Typically between 12 to 20 breaths per minute.
p.11
Body Temperature Regulation
Why is the tympanic membrane used for core temperature assessment?
It has the same blood supply as the hypothalamus.
p.21
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What factors can affect breathing rate?
Exercise, stress, illness, and altitude.
p.35
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
Where is blood pressure usually taken?
On the person’s right upper arm.
p.36
Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
What does blood viscosity indicate?
The internal friction of adjacent fluid layers within blood.
p.36
Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
What is compliance in relation to blood pressure?
The elasticity of blood vessel walls and their ability to expand and contract.
p.9
Body Temperature Regulation
What is heat exhaustion?
A condition when the core body temperature rises to 38-40°C, often due to environmental conditions.
p.17
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is bradycardia?
A slow pulse rate occurring when the pulse rate is below 60 bpm in adults.
p.30
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
How is true arterial oxygen saturation obtained?
Using arterial blood gas analysis (SaO2).
p.17
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
How does bradycardia affect cardiac output?
It can also impact cardiac output negatively.
p.6
Body Temperature Regulation
What is conduction in the context of heat loss?
The transfer of heat through direct contact between materials.
p.45
Orthostatic Hypotension Assessment
What is the next step after taking measurements while sitting?
Assist the person to stand and take blood pressure and pulse after 1 minute.
p.26
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is tachypnoea?
Regular but rapid respirations of more than 20 breaths per minute.
p.45
Orthostatic Hypotension Assessment
What should be done with the findings from the orthostatic hypotension assessment?
Record findings and report as necessary.
p.3
Body Temperature Regulation
What is the normal body temperature range for humans?
Approximately 36.1°C to 37.2°C (97°F to 99°F).
p.14
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What are common sites for measuring pulse?
Radial, Brachial, Carotid, and Femoral.
p.5
Body Temperature Regulation
What increases body temperature during physical activity?
Hormones, muscle movement, and exercise.
p.25
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What does ventilatory depth indicate?
The degree of respiratory effort.
p.32
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What does a pulse oximeter measure?
Oxygen saturation (SpO2) by detecting pulsatile blood flow through capillaries.
p.35
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What does systolic blood pressure represent?
The higher pressure occurring during ventricular contraction.
p.25
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
How is ventilatory depth described?
As normal, shallow, or deep.
p.36
Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
What is cardiac output?
The amount of blood ejected from the left ventricle.
p.12
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the primary function of the pulse?
To measure the heart rate and assess cardiovascular health.
p.20
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
In what way does fitness level affect pulse rate?
Individuals who are more physically fit tend to have a lower resting pulse rate.
p.12
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What factors can affect pulse rate?
Age, fitness level, emotional state, and overall health.
p.19
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the normal pulse rate for children aged 12 months to 2 years?
80-130 beats per minute, with an approximate average of 110.
p.34
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What does blood pressure reflect?
The relationship between cardiac output and peripheral vascular resistance.
p.31
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
How does pulse oximetry work?
By passing red and infrared light through the finger and capillary beds.
Which vital signs are commonly measured?
Commonly measured vital signs include body temperature, pulse rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure.
p.11
Body Temperature Regulation
What are the surface temperature assessment sites?
Oral, axillary, forehead, and temporal sites.
p.28
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What is oxygen saturation?
The percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is saturated with oxygen.
p.5
Body Temperature Regulation
How do blood vessels in the skin contribute to heat loss?
They bring heat to the skin's surface.
p.19
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the normal pulse rate for infants aged 1 to 12 months?
80-140 beats per minute, with an approximate average of 120.
p.17
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
How is pulse rate assessed?
By counting the pulsations in 1 minute.
p.29
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What is the role of red blood cells (RBC) in oxygen saturation?
RBC carry oxygen attached to haemoglobin molecules.
p.21
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is the significance of monitoring ventilations?
To assess respiratory function and detect potential health issues.
p.29
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What does SaO2 represent?
The percentage of haemoglobin bound to oxygen in the arteries.
p.17
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is tachycardia?
A rapid heart rate occurring when the pulse is more than 100 bpm in adults.
p.18
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the normal rhythm of the pulse?
Regular, with an even pattern and time interval between pulsations in most people.
p.12
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What does a weak or thready pulse indicate?
Possible low blood volume or poor circulation.
p.38
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What is the most commonly used type of blood pressure monitoring device?
Non-invasive sphygmomanometer.
p.8
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
How does the menstrual cycle affect body temperature?
Progesterone secretion during ovulation increases temperature by 0.15-0.45°C.
p.23
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
How does carbon dioxide affect the rate of respiration?
Increased carbon dioxide levels stimulate an increase in the rate of respiration.
p.23
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is the relationship between blood pH and respiration?
Changes in blood pH can influence the rate and depth of respiration.
p.24
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is the normal respiratory rate range for a toddler (2 years)?
25-32 breaths per minute.
p.24
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is the normal respiratory rate range for a child?
20-30 breaths per minute.
p.27
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
Which emotional state can affect respiration rate?
Emotions such as anxiety or stress.
p.6
Body Temperature Regulation
What role does radiation play in heat loss?
The emission of heat in the form of infrared rays from the body to the environment.
Why is it important to review vital signs in the context of the patient?
To understand the 'story' of the patient and how they are presenting.
p.27
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What role do medications or drugs play in respiration rate?
They can either increase or decrease respiration rate.
p.15
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
Where is the carotid pulse located?
On the neck, beside the windpipe.
p.16
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What does pulse rhythm refer to?
The interval between each beat, which can be regular, irregular, or regularly irregular.
p.20
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
How does age influence pulse rate?
Generally, younger individuals have a higher pulse rate compared to older adults.
p.34
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
How does blood pressure change?
It changes with the events that occur during the normal cardiac cycle.
p.1
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
What factors can affect vital signs?
Factors include age, gender, physical activity, emotional state, and overall health.
p.28
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What is a normal range for oxygen saturation levels?
Typically between 95% and 100%.
p.38
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What are the two types of blood pressure monitoring?
Non-Invasive and Invasive.
p.25
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What causes wheezing sounds during respiration?
Narrowing of the airways from inflammation or mucus.
p.35
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What should be indicated if blood pressure is taken elsewhere?
Where the blood pressure was taken.
p.9
Body Temperature Regulation
What is hyperthermia?
A condition when the core body temperature registers above 39°C, and the body can no longer control heat production/loss.
p.40
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What is a sphygmomanometer used for?
To measure blood pressure.
p.30
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What does pulse oximetry estimate?
Arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2).
p.12
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What does a bounding pulse suggest?
Possible high blood pressure or increased cardiac output.
p.9
Body Temperature Regulation
What physiological response occurs during heat exhaustion?
Profuse perspiration (diaphoresis) occurs, leading to thirst.
p.29
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What is the significance of blood flow through the pulmonary capillaries?
It allows for oxygen attachment to red blood cells.
p.41
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
Which limb condition should be avoided for blood pressure monitoring if it has a skin graft?
A limb with a skin graft or skin-fat-muscle flap.
p.9
Body Temperature Regulation
What happens to the body's ability to regulate temperature during hyperthermia?
The body is no longer able to control heat production/loss.
p.44
Orthostatic Hypotension Assessment
What is orthostatic hypotension?
A transient low blood pressure associated with weakness and fainting when rising to an upright position.
p.40
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
Why is the bell of the stethoscope preferred for certain sounds?
It is designed to pick up low-pitched sounds.
p.15
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the dorsalis pedis pulse?
A pulse assessed on the top of the foot.
p.46
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is a normal resting pulse rate for adults?
A normal resting pulse rate for adults is typically between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
p.47
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
Why is it important to use the right cuff size when measuring blood pressure?
Using the wrong size can significantly impact the reading.
p.21
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is the primary function of breathing?
To facilitate gas exchange, providing oxygen to the body and removing carbon dioxide.
Why are vital signs important?
They provide critical information about a person's health status and can indicate potential medical issues.
p.16
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What are the different strengths of a pulse?
Weak, strong, and bounding (not easily compressible).
p.35
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What does diastolic blood pressure represent?
The lower pressure occurring during ventricular relaxation.
p.22
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What requires further investigation in a patient?
A change in respiratory rate, rhythm, or quality.
p.34
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
In what unit is blood pressure measured?
Millimetres of mercury (mmHg).
p.36
Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
What is blood volume?
The amount of circulating blood through the arteries.
p.41
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What are the most commonly used sites for non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP) monitoring?
The brachial and popliteal artery.
p.12
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
How can pulse be assessed?
By palpating arteries at various points on the body, such as the wrist or neck.
p.8
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
Who is more sensitive to temperature changes?
The very young, the old, and the infirm.
p.23
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What role do chemoreceptors play in respiration?
They detect changes in carbon dioxide and blood pH to regulate breathing.
p.33
Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
What can high blood pressure lead to?
Increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
p.9
Body Temperature Regulation
What is a potential medical use of hypothermia?
It may be intentionally induced during or after cardiac surgery.
p.26
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is the normal respiratory rate for an adult?
12-20 breaths per minute.
p.26
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What does apnoea mean?
Periods where there is no breathing.
p.27
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
How do pulmonary conditions affect respiration rate?
They can cause an increase in respiration rate due to difficulty in breathing.
p.43
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
Why is cuff size important in blood pressure measurement?
Cuff size affects the accuracy of blood pressure readings.
p.37
Factors Affecting Blood Pressure
How can emotional state affect blood pressure?
Stress and emotions can cause temporary increases in blood pressure.
p.46
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What is considered a normal oxygen saturation level?
A normal oxygen saturation level is typically between 95% and 100%.
p.13
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is heart rate or pulse rate?
The number of pulsations felt over a peripheral artery or auscultated over the apex of the heart in one minute.
p.3
Body Temperature Regulation
How does the body regulate temperature?
Through mechanisms like sweating, shivering, and altering blood flow.
p.20
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What are some factors that can affect pulse rate?
Age, fitness level, body temperature, emotional state, and medications.
p.34
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What is blood pressure?
The force of the blood pushing against the blood vessel wall.
p.25
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What does the term 'characteristics' refer to in respiratory assessment?
Sounds that can be heard during respiration.
p.4
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
What factors can cause normal variations in body temperature?
Age, health status, and time of day.
p.20
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
How does body temperature impact pulse rate?
An increase in body temperature can lead to an increase in pulse rate.
p.42
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What happens if a blood pressure cuff is too small?
It can result in falsely elevated blood pressure readings.
p.20
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What role does emotional state play in pulse rate?
Stress or excitement can elevate pulse rate, while relaxation can lower it.
p.42
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What happens if a blood pressure cuff is too large?
It can lead to falsely low blood pressure readings.
p.20
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
How can medications affect pulse rate?
Certain medications can either increase or decrease pulse rate depending on their effects.
p.23
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is 'air hunger'?
A sensation that occurs when the body needs more oxygen.
p.40
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What is the appropriate width of the cuff for measuring blood pressure?
About 40% of the circumference of the limb.
p.45
Orthostatic Hypotension Assessment
What should you do after the person sits up during the orthostatic hypotension assessment?
Take the blood pressure and pulse rate after 1 minute.
p.6
Body Temperature Regulation
How does convection contribute to heat loss?
By the movement of air or water around the body, carrying heat away.
p.27
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
How does haemorrhage affect respiration rate?
It can increase respiration rate due to decreased blood volume.
p.6
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
How does clothing affect heat loss?
Clothing can insulate the body, reducing heat loss through conduction and convection.
p.46
When to Measure Vital Signs
Why is it important to take vital signs?
Taking vital signs helps assess a person's health status and can indicate potential medical issues.
p.46
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
What factors can affect body temperature?
Factors include age, time of day, activity level, and hormonal changes.
p.14
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the purpose of lightly compressing the artery when measuring pulse?
To feel and count the pulsations.
p.1
When to Measure Vital Signs
How often should vital signs be measured?
The frequency of measurement depends on the patient's condition and healthcare setting.
p.28
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
Why is oxygen saturation important?
It indicates how well oxygen is being transported to the body's tissues.
p.22
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
Why is breathing considered the least specific indicator?
Because it can indicate a wide range of issues or no issues at all.
p.17
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What controls the pulse rate?
A group of specialized cells called the sinoatrial node.
p.19
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the normal pulse rate for children aged 2 to 6 years?
75-120 beats per minute, with an approximate average of 100.
p.38
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What is a common non-invasive blood pressure monitoring device?
Manual or automatic sphygmomanometer & stethoscope.
p.42
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
How should the blood pressure cuff fit on the arm?
It should encircle 80% of the arm's circumference.
p.33
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What does diastolic pressure represent?
The pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.
p.30
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What happens to pulse oximetry results below 70% saturation?
They may become inaccurate.
p.2
When to Measure Vital Signs
How often should vital signs be measured during a patient's stay?
Routinely throughout patient admission.
p.15
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the brachial pulse?
A pulse assessed in the upper arm, typically used in infants.
p.26
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is dyspnoea?
Breathing that is difficult or laboured.
p.37
Factors Affecting Blood Pressure
How does circadian rhythm influence blood pressure?
Blood pressure can vary throughout the day due to circadian rhythms.
p.2
When to Measure Vital Signs
When should vital signs be assessed during patient transfers?
Prior to and following transfer between wards or healthcare facilities.
p.37
Factors Affecting Blood Pressure
How does ethnicity affect blood pressure?
Different ethnic groups may have varying blood pressure responses.
p.47
When to Measure Vital Signs
Why should you not let the patient know you are taking their respiratory rate?
It can significantly impact the result.
p.5
Body Temperature Regulation
What are the processes through which surface heat escapes?
Radiation, convection, evaporation, or conduction.
p.25
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What do crackles indicate during respiration?
Fluid within the lung or collapse of alveoli.
p.9
Body Temperature Regulation
What is hypothermia?
A condition usually due to accidental exposure to the cold, with core body temperature registering below 25-35°C.
p.4
Body Temperature Regulation
What is the term for normal body temperature?
Normothermia or euthermia.
p.19
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the normal pulse rate for children aged 6 to 12 years?
75-110 beats per minute, with an approximate average of 95.
p.17
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
How does tachycardia affect cardiac output?
It can impact cardiac output negatively.
p.29
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What does oxygen saturation indicate about a patient?
It tells us if the patient is hypoxaemic.
p.9
Body Temperature Regulation
What can cause hypothermia aside from accidental exposure?
Some neurological disorders or infections.
p.29
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
How does oxygen travel from the lungs to the peripheral arteries?
Through the left side of the heart via RBC carrying oxygen.
p.8
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
What can happen to patients exposed to extreme temperatures?
They may suffer from hypothermia or hyperthermia.
p.27
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
How does temperature influence respiration rate?
Temperature can increase or decrease respiration rate.
p.33
Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
What are some factors that can influence blood pressure?
Diet, exercise, stress, and genetics.
p.40
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What is the purpose of a stethoscope in blood pressure measurement?
To listen to the Korotkoff sounds.
p.6
Body Temperature Regulation
What is evaporation in terms of heat loss?
The process where heat is lost when sweat or moisture evaporates from the skin.
p.44
Orthostatic Hypotension Assessment
What causes postural hypotension?
Peripheral vasodilation without a compensatory rise in cardiac output.
p.27
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What impact does smoking have on respiration rate?
Smoking can lead to increased respiration rate and respiratory issues.
What are vital signs?
Vital signs are measurements of the body's most basic functions, including body temperature, pulse, respiration rate, and blood pressure.
p.37
Factors Affecting Blood Pressure
What can happen if the cuff size is incorrect during a blood pressure measurement?
It can lead to inaccurate readings.
p.37
Factors Affecting Blood Pressure
How does exercise impact blood pressure?
Exercise can lower blood pressure over time.
p.37
Factors Affecting Blood Pressure
What role does weight play in blood pressure regulation?
Higher weight can lead to increased blood pressure.
p.46
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
How is respiratory rate measured?
Respiratory rate is measured by counting the number of breaths taken in one minute.
p.47
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What is a key consideration when positioning the blood pressure cuff?
Position it correctly to ensure accurate readings.
p.23
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What factors influence the rate of respiration?
Metabolic demands, carbon dioxide levels, and blood pH.
p.18
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What happens with each beat of the heart?
A new volume of blood distends the aorta and spreads to smaller arteries in the peripheries.
p.28
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What can low oxygen saturation indicate?
Potential respiratory or circulatory issues.
p.24
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is the normal respiratory rate range for a newborn?
30-60 breaths per minute.
p.33
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What is considered normal blood pressure?
Typically around 120/80 mmHg.
p.2
When to Measure Vital Signs
When should vital signs be assessed upon patient admission?
On admission to any healthcare facility.
p.48
When to Measure Vital Signs
What should you do when you are concerned or in doubt about a patient's condition?
Seek help from medical/nursing staff or call emergency services (000).
p.26
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What does orthopnoea refer to?
Inability to breathe lying down, with a preference to be upright.
p.15
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the popliteal pulse?
A pulse located behind the knee.
p.2
When to Measure Vital Signs
When should vital signs be measured after a patient deterioration episode?
Following an episode of patient deterioration.
p.27
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What is the effect of anaemia on respiration rate?
Anaemia can cause an increased respiration rate due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity.
p.46
Body Temperature Regulation
What is the normal range for body temperature in adults?
The normal range is typically around 36.1°C to 37.2°C (97°F to 99°F).
p.15
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the jugular pulse?
A pulse assessed in the neck, related to the jugular vein.
p.8
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
What factors can affect body temperature?
Age, gender, stress, environmental temperatures, and surgery.
p.34
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
How is blood pressure expressed?
As a ratio of systolic pressure over diastolic pressure.
p.8
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
How does circadian rhythm affect body temperature?
Temperature is usually 0.6°C lower in the morning than in the late afternoon and evening.
p.38
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
Why is the non-invasive method commonly used?
It is easily portable and can be used on arms or legs.
p.18
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is an arrhythmia?
An irregular pattern of heartbeats.
p.41
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
Which side should be avoided for blood pressure monitoring following a mastectomy?
The side of an axillary clearance following mastectomy.
p.41
Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What type of limb should be avoided for blood pressure monitoring if it has an arterio-venous fistula?
A limb with an arterio-venous fistula.
p.45
Orthostatic Hypotension Assessment
What position should a person be in before assessing for orthostatic hypotension?
Supine position for 3-5 minutes.
p.26
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What does bradypnoea refer to?
A slow respiratory rate of less than 12 breaths per minute in an adult.
p.15
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the radial pulse?
A pulse assessed at the wrist, on the thumb side.
Do normal vital signs guarantee patient stability?
No, normal vital signs do not necessarily mean the patient is stable.
p.2
When to Measure Vital Signs
When should vital signs be measured in relation to surgery?
Before, during, and after surgery or an invasive procedure.
p.2
When to Measure Vital Signs
When should vital signs be checked in relation to medication?
In conjunction with medication that may affect vital signs.
p.15
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the apical pulse?
A pulse assessed at the apex of the heart, usually with a stethoscope.
p.15
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the radial artery?
An artery where the radial pulse is assessed.
p.46
Orthostatic Hypotension Assessment
What is orthostatic hypotension?
Orthostatic hypotension is a form of low blood pressure that happens when standing up from sitting or lying down.
p.6
Body Temperature Regulation
How does respiration contribute to heat loss?
By losing heat through exhaled air, which is warmer than the surrounding air.
p.44
Orthostatic Hypotension Assessment
What pulse rate change suggests postural hypotension?
An increase of 40 beats in the pulse rate.
p.43
Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
What can happen if the cuff size is too small?
It can lead to falsely elevated blood pressure readings.
p.15
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
Where is the temporal pulse located?
On the side of the forehead.
p.15
Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
Where can you find the ulnar pulse?
On the wrist, on the side opposite the thumb.
p.37
Factors Affecting Blood Pressure
What body position can influence blood pressure readings?
Body position (sitting, standing, lying down).
p.37
Factors Affecting Blood Pressure
How does incorrect arm position affect blood pressure measurement?
It can lead to inaccurate readings.
p.2
When to Measure Vital Signs
When is it important to measure vital signs before contacting medical staff?
Prior to calling medical staff to discuss patient condition/concerns.
p.27
Respiratory Rate and Assessment
What effect does pain have on respiration rate?
Pain can lead to an increased respiration rate.
p.44
Orthostatic Hypotension Assessment
Who is at risk for postural hypotension?
Elderly patients and those taking antihypertensives.
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When to Measure Vital Signs
When conducting a physical examination, when should vital signs be assessed?
When conducting a physical examination.
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When to Measure Vital Signs
How long should you take the respiratory and pulse rate?
For 1 minute, especially when the pattern is irregular.
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Pulse Assessment and Characteristics
What is the facial pulse?
A pulse located along the jawline.
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Factors Affecting Blood Pressure
What impact do medications or drugs have on blood pressure?
They can either raise or lower blood pressure.
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Respiratory Rate and Assessment
How does neurological damage influence respiration rate?
It can disrupt normal breathing patterns, affecting respiration rate.
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Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
What can happen if the cuff size is too large?
It can result in falsely low blood pressure readings.
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Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
How does arm position affect blood pressure readings?
The arm should be at heart level for accurate measurements.
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Oxygen Saturation Measurement
What should you do with the oxygen saturation probe before checking the reading?
Put the probe on first but check it last.
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Blood Pressure Fundamentals
What is the normal range for blood pressure in adults?
The normal range is usually around 120/80 mmHg.
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Factors Influencing Blood Pressure
What factors can influence blood pressure readings?
Factors include stress, hydration levels, physical activity, and time of day.
