Why do they always take my temperature and blood pressure when I see a clinician at Campus Health?

Temperature, pulse, respirations and blood pressure are called "vital signs." These vital signs aid the provider in evaluating your health.

Temperatures are measured at Campus Health with an electronic thermometer that is very accurate. Body temperature tends to fluctuate throughout the day, peaking in the late afternoon. Normal temperature variations are from 96.8° to 99.5° F (36 - 37.5° C). Abnormal readings are helpful in assessing infections and other diseases.

Pulse reveals the heart rate and rhythm. Normal pulse rate is usually between 60-100 beats per minute. Pulse rates below 60 are common in athletes and in people taking certain medications (e.g., Inderal). Exercise, stress, fear, caffeine, fever, shock and certain drugs (e.g., Sudafed) can increase the pulse rate.

Respirations are the measurement of breathing. Normal rate is between 12-20 breaths per minute. This measurement is very important in evaluating anyone with lung problems (e.g., asthma).

Blood pressure measurements tell the provider how well the heart is functioning. The blood pressure reading consists of two numbers. The systolic is the top number which indicates the amount of pressure your heart exerts when it is contracted. The bottom number, diastolic, is the pressure when your heart is relaxed. Normal blood pressure readings are between 100-139 systolic and 60-89 diastolic. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, often has no symptoms and is called the "silent killer." Low blood pressure can indicate dehydration or shock.

It is important to check your vital signs on each visit as a screening device. It will assist the provider in his/her evaluation and will serve as a baseline for future visits.