Definition

Noun: A vital sign is a measurable indicator of the body's most essential life-sustaining functions. These signs provide a basic, immediate assessment of a person's general physical condition and physiological status.

Usage

Vital signs are objective, quantifiable measurements used in clinical and emergency settings to monitor a patient's health, detect medical problems, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. They are fundamental to medical assessment.

Examples

• The nurse checked the patient's vital signs, including pulse and temperature, every four hours.
• Upon arrival at the scene, the paramedic's first task was to assess the accident victim's vital signs.
• Stable vital signs are a good indicator that the patient is recovering well from surgery.

Advanced Usage

• The term is almost exclusively used in its plural form, vital signs, as multiple measurements are typically taken and considered together.
• In a clinical context, the "classic" or primary vital signs are body temperature, pulse rate (heart rate), respiratory rate (breathing rate), and blood pressure. Pain level is often considered a fifth vital sign.

Variants and Related Words

• Vital (adjective): Absolutely necessary or important; essential to life. (e.g., )
• Sign (noun): An object, quality, or event whose presence or occurrence indicates the probable presence or occurrence of something else. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Clinical measurements
• Physiological parameters
• Life signs

Related Phrases

• To take vital signs: To measure and record a patient's vital signs.
  • The doctor asked the assistant to take the new patient's vital signs.
• To monitor vital signs: To observe and track vital signs over time.
  • The patient in the intensive care unit had his vital signs monitored continuously.

Noun

1. sign of life; usually an indicator of a person's general physical condition
   • he was still alive but his vital signs were weak