Understanding the Vital Signs: BP, HR, RR, TEMP, SaO2 … and SV

Abstract

It is by no accident that the five (now six) vital signs are called VITAL SIGNS. Yet, many clinicians do not appreciate the importance of these VITAL signs nor how to interpret them. The initial assessment of every ICU and ER patient requires a thoughtful review of the five vital signs; this has an essential role in triage decisions and the initial treatment strategy. Any patient with an abnormal vital sign is at an increased risk of death. The risk of death is compounded by derangements of multiple vital signs [1]. In addition, the trends in the vital signs are VITALLY important in tracking a patient’s progress. This chapter reviews the Five Vital Signs… and introduces the 6th vital sign.