|
|
Vital Signs
Definition
Vital signs are physical signs that indicate an individual is alive, such as heart beat, breathing rate, temperature, and blood pressure. These signs can be observed, measured, and monitored to assess an individual's level of physical functioning. Normal vital signs change with age, sex, weight, exercise tolerance, and condition.
Normal ranges for the average healthy adult:
Temperature: 97.8-99.1 degrees Fahrenheit / average 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit
Breathing: 12-18 respirations (breaths) per minute
Pulse: 60-80 beats per minute (at rest)
Blood Pressure:
- Systolic: less than 120 mm of mercury (mm Hg)
- Diastolic: less than 80 mm Hg
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Today's Top News Stories | • | Falls Are Top Cause of Injury, Death Among Elderly - Jul 19, 2008, 09:00
Not all homes are the same, but common sense measures can reduce the risk, expert says. | • | Heart Blood Vessels Grown in the Lab - Jul 18, 2008, 19:00
Could offer a future alternative to bypass surgery, researchers say. | • | Clinical Trials Update: July 18, 2008 - Jul 18, 2008, 09:24
- Breast Cancer
- Hot Flashes
- Emphysema
| • | Loud Music in Bars Hastens Drinking - Jul 18, 2008, 16:00
French researchers say blasting tunes makes patrons down more alcohol in less time. | • | Breast-Fed Babies Have Fewer GI Infections - Jul 18, 2008, 17:00
But they're more likely to be iron-deficient, study finds. |
|
 |
Review Date : 6/4/2003
Reviewed By : Bridget Martell, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
|
