When it comes to vital signs, every medical student should learn these important skills:
Blood Pressure: It’s crucial to know how to measure and understand blood pressure. A normal reading is usually around 120/80 mmHg. However, this can change based on a person’s age, fitness level, and health issues.
Heart Rate: Measuring heart rate is key. You can do this by feeling for the pulse at the wrist or neck. For adults, a normal heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. Athletes might have lower heart rates.
Respiratory Rate: To check how many breaths someone takes, count for 30 seconds and then double that number. An adult’s normal breathing rate is usually between 12 and 20 breaths per minute.
Temperature: It’s important to learn how to take temperature both by mouth and under the armpit. A normal oral temperature is about 98.6°F (or 37°C), but this can change based on activity and the time of day.
Oxygen Saturation: You can use a pulse oximeter to check how much oxygen is in someone’s blood. Aim for readings above 95%. This is especially important for checking lung health.
By learning these vital signs, you'll build a strong base for understanding patients and making smart health decisions!
When it comes to vital signs, every medical student should learn these important skills:
Blood Pressure: It’s crucial to know how to measure and understand blood pressure. A normal reading is usually around 120/80 mmHg. However, this can change based on a person’s age, fitness level, and health issues.
Heart Rate: Measuring heart rate is key. You can do this by feeling for the pulse at the wrist or neck. For adults, a normal heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. Athletes might have lower heart rates.
Respiratory Rate: To check how many breaths someone takes, count for 30 seconds and then double that number. An adult’s normal breathing rate is usually between 12 and 20 breaths per minute.
Temperature: It’s important to learn how to take temperature both by mouth and under the armpit. A normal oral temperature is about 98.6°F (or 37°C), but this can change based on activity and the time of day.
Oxygen Saturation: You can use a pulse oximeter to check how much oxygen is in someone’s blood. Aim for readings above 95%. This is especially important for checking lung health.
By learning these vital signs, you'll build a strong base for understanding patients and making smart health decisions!