In this article we will talk about the cardinal vital signs that defines the majority of the nursing basic assessment. As discussed in our previous article titled Nursing Assessment Tips And Overview, the subjective and objective assessments play an important role in initiating, planning, and managing a patient’s medical condition and treatment. The connection between vital signs and a person’s overall health will yield a much better picture of their medical condition and more stable daily living.
What are the difference between subjective and objective assessments?
Subjective assessments are information obtained based on verbalization or interpretation of the patient. These assessments are not verifiable. Example, a patient stated that she or he is in pain. While the objective assessments are verifiable facts and observations. It is usually the final confirmation to diagnose any illness. Objective assessments are being used in making medical decisions to initiate treatments. Example, diagnostic testings such as x-ray, scans, laboratory works, and the first four cardinal vital signs.
Main Cardinal Vital Signs:
Body Temperature – measured by a thermometer
Normal range body temperature for an adult is 97 – 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (36.1 – 37 degrees Celcius), and for neonates between 96.8 – 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit (36 – 37.5 degrees Celcius). A body temperature over 100.1 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celcius) is considered febrile indicating that a patient is with a fever due to possible infection or illness.
Pulse or Heart Rate – measured using stethoscope or by a cardiac monitor
In general, when at rest – the lower heart rate, the better. It indicates that the heart function are efficient. Resting normal heart rate for adult ranges from 60 – 100 BPM (beats per minute) and for neonates 120 – 180 BPM. Low pulse rate indicates low blood oxygen levels in the body. and possible heart disease. High pulse rate will prevent the body from breathing adequately and heart rate more than 150 BPM indicates heart disease that requires immediate medical attention . Heart rate can be affected by multiple factors such as illnesses and environment status – humidity, cold, and heat.
Respiration Rate – measured using stethoscope or by chest movement observations https://amzn.to/49oerVP
Resting normal respiration rate for adults is between 12- 16 BPM (breaths per minute), and for neonates 40 – 60 BPM. Low respiration rate associated with symptoms indicates low oxygenation level in the blood and possible intoxication. High respiration rate indicates respiratory distress, shortness of breath, and difficulty of breathing.
Blood Pressure – measured using stethoscope and blood pressure machine
Resting normal blood pressure for adult 90/60 mmHg – 120/80 mmHg, for neonates 60/30 mmHg – 80/45 mmHg. Low blood pressure indicates dehydration, shock, and infection. Blood pressures 140/90 mmHg and above for adult, may indicate stroke and other illnesses that requires immediate medical attention.
Pain is considered as the fifth cardinal vital signs by some sources in healthcare studies. However, it is hard to confirm this in objective assessments.
Tracking these cardinal vital signs can offer early warnings of medical issues that can save lives of many individuals. Knowledge and understanding these vital signs are key to medical safety and disease prevention. A resource tool for healthcare providers and non-healthcare people.
There are new innovations and advanced high technology being offered nowadays to monitor vital signs wherever you are. Examples are watches and other devices linked into cell phones and more https://amzn.to/3SnLqCz. There’s so many safe ways you can do to maintain and monitor your vital signs at home. One of the best method is through lifestyle choices. Stay healthy my friend!
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