Undertake Physiological Measurements

Learning outcomes

1 Understand relevant legislation, policy and good practice for undertaking physiological measurements

1.1 Describe current legislation, national guidelines, organisational policies and protocols affecting work practice

2 Understand the physiological states that can be measured

2.1 Explain the principles of blood pressure to include:

Blood pressure maintenance

Differentiation between systolic and diastolic blood pressure

Normal limits of blood pressure

Conditions of high or low blood pressure

2.2 Explain the principles of body temperature to include:

Body temperature maintenance

Normal body temperature

Pyrexia, hyperpyrexia and hypothermia

2.3 Explain the principles of respiratory rates to include:

Normal respiratory rates

Factors affecting respiratory rates in ill and well individuals

2.4 Explain the principles of pulse rates to include:

Normal pulse rates limits

Factors affecting pulse rates – raising or lowering

Pulse sites on the body

The requirement for pulse oximetry measurements

Analysis and implication of pulse oximetry findings

2.5 Explain the principles of Body Mass Index (BMI) in relation to weight/dietary control

2.6 Explain the major factors that influence changes in physiological measurements

2.7 Explain the importance of undertaking physiological measurements

3 Be able to prepare to take physiological measurements

3.1 Explain to the individual what measurements will be undertaken and why these are done

3.2 Reassure the individual during physiological measurements process

3.3 Answer questions and deal with concerns during physiological measurements process

3.4 Explain the help individuals may need before taking their physiological measurements

3.5 Explain why it may be necessary to adjust an individual’s clothing before undertaking physiological measurements

3.6 Ensure all materials and equipment to be used are appropriately prepared

3.7 Confirm the individual’s identity and obtain valid consent

4 Be able to undertake physiological measurements

4.1 Apply standard precautions for infection prevention and control

4.2 Apply health and safety measures relevant to the procedure and environment

4.3 Select and use appropriate equipment at the prescribed time and in the prescribed sequence to obtain an accurate measurement

4.4 Monitor the condition of the individual throughout the measurement

4.5 Respond to any significant changes in the individual’s condition

4.6 Follow the agreed process when unable to obtain or read a physiological measurement

4.7 Identify any issues outside own responsibility and refer these to other colleagues

5 Be able to record and report results of physiological measurements

5.1 Explain the necessity for recording physiological measurements

5.2 Explain a few common conditions which require recording of physiological measurements

5.3 Demonstrate the correct process for reporting measurements that fall outside the normal levels

5.4 Record physiological measurements taken accurately using the correct documentation