VITAL SIGNS include the following:

• Body temperature

• Heart rate (pulse)

• Breathing rate (respiration)

• Blood pressure

BODY TEMPERATURE

Body temperature is an important indicator of our overall health. It is important to know what is considered a normal temperature range and what signs to look out for if something seems off. In this article, we will discuss the basics of body temperature, including what is considered a normal range and what signs may indicate a potential issue.

Normal body temperature can range from 97.8° F (36.5°C) to 99°F (37.2°C) in adults

HEART RATE

Heart rate is a measure of the number of times your heart beats in a minute and is one of the best indicators of a person’s health. It is affected by factors such as age, physical activity, anxiety, and stress. An optimal heart rate, or target heart rate, is determined based on individual factors like age and activity levels and is used to help guide and monitor physical activity. Knowing your heart rate can help you track your progress in workouts, prevent injury, and improve overall health.

The number of times the heart beats each minute is called the Pulse

· The normal pulse ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute in adults

BREATHING RATE

Breathing RATE is an innovative approach to improving your breathing and overall health. This program uses a combination of breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, and lifestyle modifications to help you learn to breathe more efficiently and effectively. By understanding the principles of proper breathing, you can restore balance to your body and mind, leading to improved wellbeing. Through this program, you will learn the science behind breathing and how it can be used to optimize your health and wellness.

The number of breaths one takes each minute is called the Respiratory rate

· The normal respiratory rate ranges from 12 to 20 breaths per minute in an adult

BLOOD PRESSURE

Blood pressure, or BP, is a measurement of the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It is one of the most important vital signs for monitoring your health. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Knowing your blood pressure and understanding what it means can help you take the necessary steps to keep your heart healthy.

The force of the blood pushing against the artery walls during contraction and relaxation of the heart is called the Blood Pressure

· Normal blood pressure is systolic of less than 120 and diastolic of less than 80 (120/80)

· Elevated blood pressure is systolic of 120 to 129 and diastolic less than 80

· Stage 1 high blood pressure is systolic is 130 to 139 or diastolic between 80 to 89

· Stage 2 high blood pressure is when systolic is 140 or higher or the diastolic is 90 or higher

WHAT TO DO BEFORE TAKING THE BLOOD PRESSURE

Check that the device is working correctly. Make sure the tubing is not twisted when storing it and keep it away from heat to prevent cracks and leaks

Don’t smoke, have caffeinated drinks, or exercise for 30 minutes before taking the blood pressure

It is wise to urinate before taking the test

Relax for 5 minutes before taking the measurement

Sit with the back supported

Keep feet on the floor uncrossed

Place the arm on a solid flat surface (like a table) with the upper part of the arm at heart level

Place the middle of the cuff directly above the bend of the elbow

Take the blood pressure at the same time every day

Record the date, time, and blood pressure reading

Take the record to the next medical appointment

Call the doctor if several high readings have been recorded

If the blood pressure reaches a systolic (top number) of 180 or higher OR diastolic (bottom number) of 110 or higher, seek emergency medical treatment