Vital Signs in Dental Assisting

List the four vital signs routinely taken in the dental office.

Describe how metabolism affects a patient’s vital signs.

Discuss temperature, which includes the following: Standard temperature readings and areas of the body used to obtain a temperature reading. Types of thermometers.

Discuss pulse, which includes the following: Common pulse sites used for taking a pulse. Standard pulse readings and characteristics to look for when taking a patient’s pulse.

Discuss respiration, which includes the following: Characteristics of respiration and how it affects a patient’s breathing.

Discuss blood pressure, which includes the following: Classification of standard blood pressure readings and stages of hypertension. Differentiate Korotkoff sounds heard when taking a patient’s blood pressure. The importance of taking a patient’s blood pressure routinely.

Discuss advanced monitoring procedures used to assess a patient’s health status.

What is the average range of oral temperature of a resting person?

• 97.6º F to 99º F

• 95º F to 97º F

• 98º F to 100º F

• 100º F to 102º F

What is the normal pulse rate in resting adults?

• 60 to 100 beats per minute

• 70 to 120 beats per minute

• 50 to 80 beats per minute

• 80 to 110 beats per minute

What is the normal respiration rate for adults?

• 10 to 20 breaths per minute

• 15 to 25 breaths per minute

• 20 to 30 breaths per minute

• 5 to 15 breaths per minute