Vital Signs Flashcards

Body Temperature

• Normal body temperature range is 97°F to 98°F.
• A temperature of 100°F is considered a low-grade fever.
• Pyrexia is classified as a body temperature of 103°F.
• A temperature reading of 97.6°F is within normal limits.
• The term "febrile" is used to describe a fever.

Temperature Measurement Insights

• Early morning body temperatures may be lower due to decreased metabolism during sleep.
• Rising temperatures in patients can cause sensations of coldness and chills.
• A remittent fever exhibits significant temperature fluctuations above normal.
• Symptoms accompanying fever may include malaise, which refers to a vague sense of discomfort and fatigue.

Thermometer Usage

• An electronic thermometer's probe must be covered with a disposable cover before use.
• The axillary site is preferred for taking temperatures in preschoolers.
• Arm position is crucial during axillary measurements to prevent air current interference.
• Axillary temperatures typically register lower; a reading of 100°F axillary translates to 101°F orally.

Rectal and Temporal Measurements

• Rectal thermometers require lubrication to avoid irritation of the rectal mucosa.
• For infants, the rectal probe should be inserted ½ inch for accurate readings.
• The temporal artery can be used for temperature measurement in various age groups and readings are usually about 1°F higher than oral temperatures.
• Inaccurate temporal artery readings may result from quickly scanning the forehead.

Pulse Measurement

• Measuring pulse excludes determining hypertension development as a purpose.
• Excessive pressure on the radial pulse can obstruct arterial flow, making pulse detection difficult.
• Infants generally have the fastest pulse rates.
• The radial pulse is found on the thumb side of the wrist.

Assessing Circulation and Characteristics of Pulse

• The posterior tibial site is useful for assessing circulation to the foot.
• A pulse with normal rhythm and volume is recorded as "regular and strong."
• A weak and rapid pulse is described as "thready."
• An extremely strong and full pulse is characterized as "bounding."

Respiratory Terms and Oxygen Saturation

• Dysrhythmia signifies any irregular heart rhythm.
• Hypopnea indicates an abnormal decrease in the depth and rate of breathing.
• Apnea refers to temporary cessation of breathing.
• SpO2 is the abbreviation used for recording oxygen saturation via a pulse oximeter.
• Normal oxygen saturation levels in healthy individuals range from 95% to 99%.
• Hypoxemia denotes decreased oxygen saturation in the blood.
• Conditions like gastritis do not typically affect SpO2 readings.
• Darkly pigmented skin does not influence SpO2 measurements.