Question

What are the six main vital signs commonly assessed by the EMT?

Answer 1

The six main vital signs assessed by an EMT are body temperature, heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and stroke volume. These measurements are crucial for determining a patient's overall health and identifying any potential medical conditions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The six main vital signs commonly assessed by an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) provide essential information regarding a patient's current health status. These include:

1. Body Temperature: The normal baseline is approximately 37°C (98.6°F).
2. Heart Rate: Typically, a normal range is 60-100 beats per minute.
3. Breathing Rate: A normal breathing rate is typically 12-18 breaths per minute.
4. Blood Pressure: The normal range is between 90/60 and 120/80 mm Hg.
5. Oxygen Saturation: This refers to the percentage of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin in the bloodstream.
6. Stroke Volume: This is the amount of blood pumped by the left ventricle of the heart in one contraction.

These vital signs are critical in assessing a patient's condition and can indicate the presence of disease or other medical issues. For instance, a fever may signify an infection, while hypothermia or hyperthermia can affect the heart rate and the strength of its contractions, with potential serious health implications if not managed properly.