Blood Pressure
In contrast to pulse and respiration, which you can measure without an instrument, a blood pressure measurement requires a sphygmomanometer. You can buy this tool at pharmacies or medical supply stores.
Remember: there are different sizes of BP cuffs per age group. If you use the wrong size of BP cuff, you might get an inaccurate blood pressure reading.
Body Temperature
A thermometer is a very important tool for parents to have because children commonly experience fevers, for example when the child has just finished a round of immunization.
There are different types of thermometers with different measurement locations. Depending on the kind of thermometer, you can measure a child’s temperature via the forehead, armpits, mouth, or rectum.
When Should You Go to the Doctor?
Changes in vital signs in children are normal. Their blood pressure, respiratory rate, and body temperature may occasionally increase when they are active or when they are anxious. Usually vital signs will go back down when the child is relaxed or going to sleep.
There are several signs that parents need to watch out for:
- Fever with a body temperature of more than 38°C
- The rate and frequency of breathing is short and irregular (such as gasping for air while running)
- An increase in heart rate along with a decrease in blood pressure that stops for more than 20 seconds
- Pale skin or blue lips
Parents should contact the doctor immediately if their has any of these signs.
Learn more about Child Health here.
Comments
Share your thoughts
Be the first to let Hello Doctor know your thoughts!
Join Us or Log In to join the discussion