Every visit to the doctor includes a vitals test. This test’s measurements give healthcare professionals insight into a patient’s overall health and help detect early signs of possible underlying conditions. Understanding what numbers are considered normal and what deviations are concerning is crucial. Even though a vitals test is so basic and ubiquitous, performing it well is essential for knowing when a patient’s health might be at risk. Here’s a review of the key abnormalities to look for when taking a patient’s vitals.
Vitals Testing Can Include:
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is an essential indicator of cardiovascular health which is with almost every vitals test. The average normal blood pressure reading for adults is around 120/80 mmHg. When numbers rise above 130/80 mmHg, this suggests hypertension, which could contribute to heart disease or stroke. Conversely, readings below 90/60 mmHg indicate hypotension, which can cause dizziness or fainting.
Heart Rate
Heart rate, or pulse, measures the number of heartbeats per minute, and this is another measure taken at almost every vitals test. A normal resting heart rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm). If you get a reading of over 100 bpm, then the patient has tachycardia. Tachycardia (specifically sinus tachycardia) is completely normal when a patient is exercising or experiencing stress, but if their bpm is over 100 at rest, tachycardia might suggest an underlying heart condition.
Conversely, bradycardia is identified when the heart rate falls below 60 bpm. This can be harmless (for instance, athletes commonly have bradycardia), but it can also indicate underlying issues.
Respiratory Rate
Respiratory rate, or breaths per minute, is a key indicator of respiratory health. A normal range for adults is about 12 to 20 breaths per minute. Tachypnea is characterized by a respiratory rate above 25 breaths per minute and, if not induced by exercise, might signal conditions like infection, heart failure, or chronic lung diseases. Bradypnea, a rate below 12 breaths per minute, could point to problems like drug use, thyroid issues, neurologic conditions, and more.
Body Temperature
Body temperature offers insight into metabolic processes and potential infections. As most people learn as kids in school, the average normal body temperature typically hovers around 98.6°F (37°C). This vitals testing can help detect illness, it can also monitor whether or not treatment is working. Closely regulated temperature is imperative for normal and efficient functioning of organ systems.
If a patient’s body temperature rises above 100.4°F (38°C), then they have a fever that could be due to infection or inflammation. Conversely, a drop below 95°F (35°C) indicates hypothermia, potentially from prolonged cold exposure or other medical emergencies.
Oxygen Saturation
Oxygen saturation describes the amount of oxygen a patient’s red blood cells carry. Normal levels typically range from 95 to 100 percent. Hypoxemia occurs when levels dip below 90 percent. It could be a sign of various conditions, including asthma, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and more. Persistent low levels that aren’t due to being in high altitudes require medical evaluation and intervention.
In clinical settings, attentiveness to vital signs is imperative for effective patient care. Healthcare professionals must know how to prevent misdiagnosing vital signs, as not noticing abnormalities or misinterpreting normal ranges can be serious. Follow proper procedures and make sure you remember these abnormalities to look for when taking a patient’s vitals.
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Fact-checked all numbers and information using (links in the article):
· NIH National Library of Medicine
· Cleveland Clinic
· Mayo Clinic
· WebMD
