NURS 202 Chapter Notes - Chapter 30: Superficial Temporal Artery, Pulse, Sphygmomanometer
Document Summary
Vital sign measurement includes the physiological measurement of temperature, pulse, blood pressure, respiration, and oxygen saturation. Vital signs are measured as part of either a complete physical examination or a review of a patient"s condition. Changes in vital signs are evaluated with other physical assessment findings; clinical judgement is used to determine frequency of measurement. Knowledge of the factors influencing vital signs assists in determining and evaluating abnormal values. Vital signs provide a basis for evaluating response to nursing and medical interventions. Vital signs should be measured when the patient is inactive and the environment is controlled for comfort. Patients should be assisted in maintaining body temperature by interventions that promote heat loss, production, or conservation. A fever is one of the body"s normal defence mechanisms. Measurement of temperature with the temporal artery is the least invasive, most accurate method of obtaining core temperature. Respiratory assessment includes determining the effectiveness of ventilation, perfusion, and diffusion.
