Factors Affecting Patient Vital Signs

Factors Affecting Patient Vital Signs

• Various factors can influence a patient's vital signs, including age, activity level, medications, and stress levels.
• Underlying medical conditions can significantly impact vital signs.
• Environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity, can also play a role.

Components of a Full Set of Vital Signs

• A complete set of vital signs typically includes temperature, pulse, respiration rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation (SpO2).
• These measurements provide critical information about a patient's overall health status.

Empathy vs. Sympathy

• Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of another person.
• Sympathy involves feeling sorrow or pity for another person.

Normal Vital Signs Ranges for Adults

• Temperature: Typically 36.5°C to 37.5°C (97.7°F to 99.5°F).
• Pulse: Usually 60 to 100 beats per minute.
• Respiration Rate: Typically 12 to 20 breaths per minute.
• Blood Pressure: Normal blood pressure is generally considered to be below 120/80 mmHg. Ranges will vary based on individual factors.
• Oxygen Saturation (SpO2): Normal is typically 95% to 100%.

SOAP Charting

• SOAP charting is a method of documenting patient information.
• It's an acronym that stands for:
  • S: Subjective data (patient's reported symptoms)
  • O: Objective data (measurable findings, e.g., vital signs)
  • A: Assessment (interpretation of the findings)
  • P: Plan (actions to be taken).