Question

1)compile a list of areas that can be visually inspected on a patient during the introduction period and before you begin your formal physical assignment

2) what equipment would you gather to complete a set of vitals?

Answer 1

1. Body build, posture and gait, hygiene and grooming, dress, body and breath odors, attitude, affect/mood, and speech are the areas that can be visually inspected on a patient during the introduction period and before beginning formal physical assignment.

2. Equipments gathered to complete a set of vitals are:

a. Thermometer to take temperature,

b. Electronic pulse monitor for pulse or heart rate. Pulse is taken manually using the first and second fingertips and watch, and counting the beats for 60 seconds.

c. Electronic respiratory rate monitor for respirations. It is also taken manually using fingers and counting breaths for 60 seconds; one respiration is one inhalation plus one exhalation.

d. Blood pressure is measured using a stethoscope, sphygmomanometer, and a numbered, and a pressure guage like aneroid monitor. It is also measured using electronic BP monitors.