Day 1
Respirations
(Taking Vital Signs)
Taking vital signs is important for every healthcare provider. While taking vital signs is often a formal task, it is nonetheless a very important one. Anyone who has ever been in the hospital can attest to the fact that vital signs are taken with regularity. The systematic taking of vital signs allows the medical personnel to detect problems and provide appropriate treatment as well as allow you to know whether your health situation is improving or getting worse.
The CNA is asked to count the resident’s respirations. The respirations should be counted for one full minute. During the test, since this skill is tested separately from the measure and record pulse skill, candidates are allowed to tell the resident that his/her pulse is being counted or vital signs taken, instead of stating that respirations are being counted. A Measurement Form (sample provided above) is provided to record the resident’s respiration rate. The role of the resident is played by a person.
Normal respiration for an adult at rest is 12 to 20 breaths per minute. A respiration rate under 12 or over 25 breaths per minute while resting is considered abnormal. (Cleveland Clinic)
SKILL: Count and Record Respirations
Tell the patient you will be taking their VITAL Signs.
Procedure:
1) Opening procedure – No Gloves – Taking their VITAL Signs
2) DO NOT GIVE ANY INSTRUCTIONS for breathing.
3) Ask Patient to scoot back sit up straight if in Chair.
4) Ask Patient to un-cross leg’s if in bed.
5) DO NOT GIVE ANY INSTRUCTIONS for breathing.
6) Just WATCH patient in-hale and ex-hail =1 Respiration – Watch their shoulders or stomach or neck area. Count Respirations
7) Count for 1 full minute / 60 seconds. / RECORD Respirations
8) Closing Procedures BE SURE TO RECORD
9) I AM DONE.