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Lesson 12. Vital Signs

2-12. VITAL SIGNS

a.      Vital signs should include:

• Blood pressure.
• Apical heart rate and rhythm.
• Radial pulses, bilaterally.
• Femoral pulses, bilaterally.
• Respiratory rate and rhythm.
• Temperature.

b.      Vital signs should be evaluated as follows:

• Compare current vital signs with baseline and previous vital signs.
• Note any changes in pulse rate or rhythm.
• Note respiratory changes.
• Note temperature elevations.
• Note elevation of blood pressure, especially when it occurs with a widening pulse pressure.

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