Vital Signs Review
Overview
Vital signs are clinical measurements that indicate the state of a patient's essential body
functions. They are critical indicators of health and are routinely monitored to assess a patient’s
condition. The main vital signs include:
1. Body Temperature
2. Pulse (Heart Rate)
3. Respiratory Rate
4. Blood Pressure
5. Oxygen Saturation (SpO2)
6. Pain (often considered the "fifth vital sign")
1. Body Temperature
Definition
Body temperature is the measure of the body's ability to generate and get rid of heat. It reflects
the balance between heat produced and heat lost.
Normal Range
• Oral: 36.5°C to 37.5°C (97.7°F to 99.5°F)
• Rectal: 37.0°C to 38.0°C (98.6°F to 100.4°F)
• Axillary: 36.0°C to 37.0°C (96.8°F to 98.6°F)
• Tympanic (ear): 36.5°C to 37.5°C (97.7°F to 99.5°F)
Measurement Methods
• Oral: Digital thermometer placed under the tongue.
• Rectal: Digital thermometer inserted into the rectum.
• Axillary: Digital thermometer placed in the armpit.
• Tympanic: Infrared thermometer placed in the ear canal.
• Temporal Artery: Infrared thermometer swept across the forehead.
Significance
• Fever (Pyrexia): Indicates infection or inflammation (temperature >38.0°C or 100.4°F).
• Hypothermia: Indicates exposure to cold or metabolic issues (temperature <35.0°C or
95°F).
• Hyperthermia: Can indicate heat stroke or adverse drug reactions.
Factors Affecting Temperature
