- published: 11 Dec 2012
- views: 396784
Vital signs are measures of various physiological statistics, often taken by health professionals, in order to assess the most basic body functions. Vital signs are an essential part of a case presentation. The act of taking vital signs normally entails recording body temperature, pulse rate (or heart rate), blood pressure, and respiratory rate, but may also include other measurements. Vital signs often vary by age.
There are four vital signs which are standard in most medical settings:
The equipment needed is a thermometer, a sphygmomanometer, and a watch.
Though a pulse can often be taken by hand, a stethoscope may be required for a patient with a very weak pulse.
Temperature recording gives an indication of core body temperature which is normally tightly controlled (thermoregulation) as it affects the rate of chemical reactions.
Temperature can be recorded in order to establish a baseline for the individual's normal temperature for the site and measuring conditions. The main reason for checking body temperature is to solicit any signs of systemic infection or inflammation in the presence of a fever (temp > 38.5°C or sustained temp > 38°C), or elevated significantly above the individual's normal temperature. Other causes of elevated temperature include hyperthermia.
When she walks in the room, every eye in the place
Turns to follow her every move
She's arrived on the scene in her diamonds and jeans
World class -- she's got nothing to prove
It takes a long time to know her, whe gives it up a little at a time
*She's gettin' what she wants
She's a popular girl
Settin' those hearts on fire
Everybody wants to be
Part of her world
She's a popular girl
Such a popular girl*
She walks down the street, knocks 'em dead on their feet
With a casual nonchalance
When she's breaking your heart, she's the state of the art
With license to take what she wants
It takes a hard man to hold her, she likes to get a little out of line
( * Repeat)
She waits by the window, the world is her stage
Each smile is her mirror in the passing parade, passing parade
And in the end, all she'll be is your friend
Though passion's your lone desire, she's the one you can't touch,
You want her so much, you're burnin', your heart's on fire
It takes a hard man to hold her, the challenge is forever on my mind
( * Repeat)