Commonly Monitored Vital Signs:

1. Heart Rate (HR): Measures the number of heartbeats per minute.
2. Blood Pressure (BP): Measures the force of blood against the walls of the arteries. It’s usually presented with two values: systolic (when the heart beats) and diastolic (when the heart rests between beats).
3. Respiratory Rate (RR): The number of breaths taken per minute.
4. Oxygen Saturation (SpO2): Measures the percentage of hemoglobin binding sites in the bloodstream occupied by oxygen. This is usually monitored using a pulse oximeter, which is often a part of vital sign monitors.
5. Temperature: Can be monitored using various methods, including oral, rectal, tympanic (ear), or temporal (forehead) routes.

Features of a Vital Signs Monitor:

1. Display Screen: To show real-time readings of the monitored parameters.
2. Alarms: To alert healthcare providers if a reading goes beyond preset limits.
3. Trend Monitoring: Some monitors can display trends over time, helping providers see changes in the patient’s condition.
4. Battery Backup: In case of a power outage, this ensures continuous monitoring.
5. Portability: Some are designed to be easily moved between patient rooms or attached to mobile medical carts.
6. Data Storage: Some advanced monitors can store patient data or even integrate with hospital electronic health record (EHR) systems.
7. Multi-parameter Monitoring: Most modern vital signs monitors can simultaneously display multiple parameters.

Considerations for Usage:

1. Patient Suitability: Monitors may need to be adjusted or calibrated based on the patient’s age, size, or underlying health conditions.
2. Probe/Transducer Placement: Proper placement is essential for accurate readings. For example, the SpO2 probe should have a good fit, and blood pressure cuffs should be the appropriate size.
3. Interference: Make sure there’s minimal interference or artifacts, especially for ECG or SpO2 readings. For instance, excessive patient movement can affect readings.
4. Calibration: Regular calibration is crucial to ensure accurate readings.