Blood Pressure
What are the two numbers in a blood pressure reading called?
Systolic and Diastolic.
What is a pulse?
The heartbeat felt through an artery.
What does the body temperature measure?
The body's heat
What does respiration mean?
Breathing in and out.
What does O₂ stand for?
Oxygen.
What does the systolic number measure?
Pressure when the heart contracts.
Where is the radial pulse found?
At the wrist.
What is high body temperature called?
Fever.
What should you count when measuring respirations?
The number of breaths.
What does oxygen saturation measure?
The amount of oxygen in the blood.
What does the diastolic number measure?
Pressure when the heart relaxes.
What three things should be checked when measuring a pulse?
Rate, rhythm, and strength.
What is a dangerously low body temperature called?
Hypothermia.
What three things should be observed when checking respirations?
Rate, rhythm, and depth.
What device is commonly used to measure oxygen saturation?
Pulse oximeter.
What instrument is used to measure blood pressure?
Blood pressure cuff. (Sphygmomanometer)
What is the apical pulse?
The heartbeat measured directly over the heart.
Name one type of thermometer.
Oral, rectal, axillary, tympanic, or temporal.
What should normal breathing be like?
Regular and effortless.
Where is a pulse oximeter usually placed?
On a finger.
What position should a patient usually be in when blood pressure is taken?
Relaxed and seated comfortably.
What instrument is commonly used to measure an apical pulse?
Stethoscope.
Name two things that can cause body temperature to change.
Activity, illness, age, time of day, or environment.
Why is it important to record respirations?
To monitor changes in a patient’s condition.
Why is oxygen saturation important?
It shows whether the body is getting enough oxygen.