Each type of measurement has its own specific method:
- Vital Signs: Temperature can be measured using thermometers (oral, rectal, tympanic, or temporal). Pulse is usually measured at the radial artery using the index and middle fingers. Respiration rate is counted by observing the rise and fall of the patient's chest, and blood pressure is typically measured using a sphygmomanometer and stethoscope.
- Blood Glucose Levels: This is commonly done using a glucometer, which requires a small blood sample obtained via a finger prick.
- Weight and Height: These are measured using standardized scales and stadiometers, respectively.
- Pain Assessment: This involves asking the patient to rate their pain on a scale or selecting a face that best represents their pain level.
- Oxygen Saturation: A pulse oximeter is clipped onto a finger, earlobe, or toe to measure the percentage of oxygen in the blood.
