vital information kristen loper, rn, bsn clinic nurse educator billings clinic
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Who can take vitals?TRANSCRIPT
Vital Information
Kristen Loper, RN, BSNClinic Nurse EducatorBillings Clinic
Vital Signs are VITAL!!!
TemperaturePulseRespirationsBlood Pressure
Who can take vitals?
ALWAYS…
Identify yourself Identify your patient Wash your hands Explain what you are doing
Temperature
Oral – considerations, technique Tympanic – technique Normal ranges
Pulse and Respirations
Considerations Finding an artery Irregular vs. regular How do you count breathing? Irregular vs. regular Normal ranges
Blood Pressure
Considerations Equipment Choosing an arm Patient prep
Blood Pressure (cont’d)
Technique: Use of stethoscope Applying the cuff Bulb/valve Meter How high do you go? You’re ready!!
Blood Pressure (cont’d)
Systolic vs. diastolic Normal ranges
DOCUMENTATION!!
LET’S GIVE IT A TRY!!