VITAL SIGNS

Summary

In this instructional video, nursing students from Francis Nora University demonstrate the process of measuring vital signs. They cover essential techniques for taking temperature, pulse, and blood pressure, both manually and using automated machines. The students emphasize proper hygiene, correct positioning of the patient, and how to interpret the readings to ensure accurate results. The video also highlights the use of modern technology for quicker and easier measurements, aiming to improve healthcare accuracy and efficiency.

Takeaways

• 😀 Proper hand hygiene and wearing gloves are essential before measuring vital signs.
• 😀 Start by verifying the client's identity and then measure the temperature using a thermometer.
• 😀 The normal temperature range is between 36.4°C to 37.4°C.
• 😀 For pulse measurement, locate the radial artery and count the beats for 30 seconds, then multiply by two to get the beats per minute (normal range: 60-100).
• 😀 When measuring blood pressure, ensure the client is in a sitting position with the arm exposed and forearm supported.
• 😀 For blood pressure, inflate the cuff rapidly and note the systolic pressure when the pulse is no longer felt.
• 😀 The systolic pressure is measured as the first pulse heard, and the diastolic pressure is the last pulse heard during deflation.
• 😀 Do not leave the blood pressure cuff inflated for a prolonged period, and always deflate it completely after taking the reading.
• 😀 Vital signs can also be measured using a digital machine, which can measure temperature, pulse, and blood pressure.
• 😀 When using a vital signs monitor, position the client appropriately, and ensure the machine is properly connected to take accurate readings.

Q & A

What is the first step in measuring a client's temperature using a thermometer?

The first step is to verify the client's identity to ensure accuracy, followed by gathering the necessary thermometer and gloves.

What is the normal temperature range for an adult using a thermometer?

The normal temperature range for an adult is between 36.4°C and 37.4°C.

What is the method for measuring temperature with a digital thermometer?

To measure temperature with a digital thermometer, place it at an appropriate distance, press and hold the device, and the temperature will appear on the screen.

How should the radial pulse be measured?

To measure the radial pulse, use your index and middle fingers to locate the radial artery. You can also use three fingers, count for 30 seconds, and then multiply the count by two to determine the pulse rate per minute.

What is the normal range for an adult's pulse rate?

The normal pulse rate for an adult is between 60 and 100 beats per minute.

How should the cuff be positioned when measuring blood pressure?

The cuff should be positioned evenly around the upper arm, with the lower border of the cuff just above the elbow crease. The center of the cuff should be placed over the brachial artery.

What is the process for inflating the blood pressure cuff?

The cuff should be rapidly inflated while palpating the radial artery. Once the pulse is no longer felt, note the level and then deflate the cuff quickly.

What is the correct technique for obtaining blood pressure readings?

Position the stethoscope's diaphragm over the brachial artery, inflate the cuff, and then slowly deflate it. The first sound heard indicates systolic pressure, and the last sound indicates diastolic pressure.

What should you do after obtaining the blood pressure reading?

After taking the reading, ensure the cuff is fully deflated, remove it from the client's arm, and perform hand hygiene.

How does the electric machine used to measure vital signs work?

The electric machine measures blood pressure, pulse rate, and temperature. It requires placing a finger in the pulse oximeter to measure pulse and using the cuff for blood pressure measurements. Results appear on the screen for each vital sign.