Temperature Basics

• Temperature increases with infection, exercise, crying, and pregnancy.
• Temperature is decreased in morning.
• For rectal temperature, subtract 1 degree.
• For axillary temperature, add 1 degree.
• Note method of temperature assessment, such as oral, rectal, axillary, or aural.

Pulse Basics

• Pulse increases with physical activity, pain, anxiety, fever, pregnancy, and certain medications.
• Pulse is decreased in elderly and with certain medications.
• Note pulse rhythm and volume.

Respiration Basics

• Respiration increases with physical activity, anxiety, certain medications, and fever.
• Respiration is decreased in elderly and with certain medications.
• Note respiratory rhythm and depth.
• Note abnormal breath sounds, if any.
• Take respiration rate without the patient knowing.

Blood Pressure Basics

• BP increases with physical activity, anxiety, stress, smoking, and certain medications.
• BP decreases with certain medications.
• Make sure cuff is correct size for patient.
• Never hold bell with thumb.
• Position cuff so scale is easily visible.
• Position patient’s arm at heart level and support the arm.
• Wait 1 to 2 minutes before repeating BP.
• Note arm (L or R) and patient position (sitting or lying).