Assessment of Admissions Vital Signs and Oxygen Therapy

QUESTION

The admission vital signs include: BP, 88/50; P, 110; R, 26; and T, 99°F. The supplemental oxygen is on room air and the patient is placed on 2 L/min of oxygen per nasal cannula with supplemental oxygen.

ANSWER

Assessment of Admissions Vital Signs and Oxygen Therapy

Introduction

When admitting a patient to a healthcare facility, a comprehensive assessment, including vital signs, is crucial to establishing the patient’s baseline health status. This essay discusses the assessment of admission vital signs, specifically blood pressure (BP), pulse rate (P), respiratory rate (R), and temperature (T), along with the initiation of supplemental oxygen therapy in response to the patient’s condition.

Assessment of Admission Vital Signs

1. Blood Pressure (BP):
The initial BP reading of 88/50 is lower than the normal range, indicating hypotension. Hypotension can be caused by various factors, such as dehydration, sepsis, or certain medications. It is essential to monitor BP closely and investigate the cause of hypotension.

2. Pulse Rate (P):
The pulse rate of 110 beats per minute is higher than the typical resting heart rate. Tachycardia can be a response to hypotension, fever, pain, or anxiety. Further assessment is needed to identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate interventions.

3. Respiratory Rate (R):
A respiratory rate of 26 breaths per minute is above the normal range. Tachypnea can indicate respiratory distress, fever, or anxiety. Assess the patient’s lung sounds, oxygen saturation, and overall respiratory status to determine the cause.

4. Temperature (T):
The patient’s temperature of 99°F is slightly elevated but within the normal range. Fever can be a sign of infection or inflammation. Monitor the patient’s temperature and assess for other signs of infection.

Supplemental Oxygen Therapy

The decision to initiate supplemental oxygen therapy with 2 L/min via nasal cannula is appropriate based on the patient’s vital signs. The low BP and elevated pulse rate suggest the need to improve tissue oxygenation. Oxygen therapy aims to increase the oxygen supply to vital organs and reduce the workload on the heart.

Conclusion

Admission vital signs provide valuable information about a patient’s health status and guide initial interventions. In this case, the assessment revealed hypotension, tachycardia, and tachypnea, which require further evaluation to identify underlying causes. The initiation of supplemental oxygen therapy is a crucial intervention to address potential oxygenation issues. Ongoing monitoring and a comprehensive assessment will guide the provision of appropriate care to the patient.