Reduction of Risk Potential

36.5–37.5°C (97.7–99.5°F). Oral readings are about 0.5°C lower than rectal and 0.5°C higher than axillary.

60–100 beats/min. Below 60 is bradycardia and above 100 is tachycardia — both warrant assessment and reporting if new or symptomatic.

12–20 breaths/min. Fewer than 12 is bradypnea; more than 20 is tachypnea — both should be assessed and reported.

Systolic below 120 mm Hg AND diastolic below 80 mm Hg. Elevated is 120–129 systolic with diastolic under 80; hypertension begins at 130/80.

Report it promptly. Normal SpO2 is 95–100%; below 90% indicates hypoxemia. Reposition the client, confirm probe placement, apply oxygen per protocol/order, and notify the RN/provider.

110–160 beats/min (may drop to 90–110 in deep sleep and rise above 160 with crying). Count an apical pulse for a full 60 seconds.