Pg.no. 94
Taking your temperature orally with a digital thermometer
Wash your hands with soap and warm water.
Use a clean thermometer, one that has been washed in cold water, cleaned with
rubbing alcohol, and then rinsed to remove the alcohol.
Do not eat or drink anything for at least 5 minutes before you take your temperature.
You should keep your mouth closed during this time.
Place the thermometer tip under the tongue.
Hold the thermometer in the same spot for about 40 seconds.
Readings will continue to increase and the F (or C) symbol will flash during
measurement.
Usually, the thermometer will make a beeping noise when the final reading is done.
If you are keeping track, record the temperature and the time.
Wash thermometer in cold water, clean it with alcohol, and rinse again.
Process of Checking Blood Pressure (BP):
Normal Blood Pressure
Experts consider normal blood pressure to be less than 120/80 mm Hg. Based on population
data, about 42 percent of American adults have normal blood pressure. At one point, blood
pressure at or above 120/80 and less than 140/90 was considered normal to high; these
numbers are now considered pre-hypertensive. Blood pressure consistently at or above
140/90 is considered high blood pressure or hypertension.
Blood pressure normally rises as you age and grow. Normal blood pressure readings for
children are lower than for adults, while blood pressure measurements for adults and older
teenagers are similar.
Blood pressure can also be too low, a condition called hypotension. Hypotension refers to
blood pressure lower than 90/60. Symptoms of hypotension include dizziness, fainting, and
sometimes shock.
Blood Pressure Measurement
Sphygmomanometers is used to measure blood pressure: In the form of mercury,
aneroid, and digital.
To begin blood pressure measurement, use a properly sized blood pressure cuff. The
length of the cuff's bladder should be at least equal to 80% of the circumference of
the upper arm.
Wrap the cuff around the upper arm with the cuff's lower edge one inch above the
antecubital fossa.