Vital Signs & Measurement

Accurate measurement is the nursing assistant's most trusted contribution to the care team. Learn to take, record, and recognize when to report vital signs and measurements.

Topics in this Category

Choose a Topic to Begin

Each topic is taught for the nursing assistant role — what you'll notice, what you'll do within scope, and what you'll report to the nurse.

Temperature

Oral, tympanic, axillary, rectal routes — normal ranges and what changes mean.

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Pulse

Apical and radial pulse, rate and rhythm, what a weak or irregular pulse means.

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Respirations

Counting quietly, normal ranges, signs of breathing difficulty.

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Blood Pressure

Proper cuff sizing and technique, normal ranges, when to report.

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Weight, Height & Intake/Output

Daily weights, measuring intake and output, recording accurately.

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Pain Observation

Recognizing pain through behavior and reporting — the patient's voice matters.

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