Cardiovascular Assessment

Performing cardiovascular and respiratory assessments is important in patients of all ages. Respiratory assessments determine the sufficiency of the oxygen in the body. This type of assessment can determine of there is enough oxygen in the body and if it is traveling adequately to maintain the health of the patient. Cardiovascular assessments are important for comparable reasons. They ensure that the heart is performing sufficiently enough to properly deliver blood throughout the body. There are many techniques involved when performing a cardiovascular or respiratory assessment. First, the vital signs should be taken. This will be discussed in further detail later. Then, general appearance must be observed and documented. This includes observing
Temperature reveals the body's thermoregulation. Temperature is assessed in three ways: the way the patient feels to the touch, the way they say they feel, and taking the body's core temperature using a thermometer. Pulse indicates the arterial contraction rate and should be taken for the full 60 seconds and should not solely rely on a pulse oximeter, as it may not always be accurate. Blood Pressure measures the contracting and relaxing blood flow of the heart. Use of auscultation is recommended as the most accurate measure of blood pressure. Respiratory rate is an important vital sign as an irregular rate can be indicative of many respiratory problems, such as acidosis and other critical illnesses. Oxygen saturation or spO2 is determined using a pulse oximeter and indicates tissue oxygenation, though it may not be entirely accurate on its own. Pain is an important vital sign because it can aid in finding the cause of certain issues. It is also reflective of the effectiveness of nursing care, as patients should not have to tolerate pain when under proper care. Level of consciousness is an often overlooked and generally subtle, but important sign of possible issues. Even a slight change can indicate a host of medical issues. Finally, urine output should be monitored to assess for electrolyte imbalance, which can
The quality of nursing care can be determined by the ability to inspect and observe subtle changes in the patient, which can stop potentially large medical issues at an early stage. Monitoring vital signs closely and often shows that the nurse cares for the patient's well being and is trying to provide them with the best care possible. As was mentioned previously, pain is the most directly tied to the quality of nursing. One of the main goals of a nurse is to ensure that a patient does not suffer with pain while in their care. To assess and treat pain often and promptly is the hallmark of a great