The biological basis of clinical observations

The biological basis of
clinical observations
Age guidance
Neonate-birth to 4 weeks
Infant- 4 weeks to 12 months
Toddler- 12 months to 2 years
Pre-school- 2 years to 5 years
School-aged- 5 years to 12 years
Adolescent- 12 years to 18 years



Vital signs
• Pulse
• Respiratory rate
• Blood pressure
• Temperature
• Oxygen saturation levels

, • Capillary refill time
• Level of consciousness
Vital signs should be taken on admission to gain
the baseline to be able to compare further
observations to. They should then be taken at
regular intervals depending on wellness (at least 4
hourly)


A Airway


B Breathing


C Circulation


D Disability


E Exposure



Airway
• Ensure the airway is open and patent