How to do a TPR (Medical Advice)

in the hospital, temperature, pulse and respirations are taken on each patient and documented precisely.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• BP cuff
• stethoscope
• thermometer
• patient care plan or Kardex

1. Take the temperature first. In a conscious person, you would take an oral temperature. For unconscious or very young patients (other variations apply), you may need to take the rectal or axillary temperature. The normal oral temperature for an adult ranges between 97 and 99 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Next record the pulse. You will want to take a radial pulse for an adult. For children and infants, you will probably be taking either an apical or brachial pulse. Count the pulse for 1 full minute or count for 30 seconds and divide by 2. Normal pulse for an adult is 60-100 bpm
3. Finally, record the patient's respirations. Count for 1 full minute. Watch for chest rise. Normal respirations for adults is 12-20 pm
4. Chart your observations according to company policy

Tips & Warnings

• DO NOT take your fingers off the patients wrist while counting the respirations. If the patient knows you are counting their breaths, they may subconsciously alter their breathing.