Nursing Practice within the Medical Area

Abstract

The observation of the patient is a major part of nurses’ work. In cooperation with other professional groups (e.g. doctors, allied health professionals), the exchange of correct and meaningful information is highly important. All members of the team need to understand the facts about the patient. A targeted observation of the behaviour and bodily functions of the patient is necessary, in order that changes or diseases can be detected as quickly as possible. This chapter introduces the various areas of clinical observation: observation of the skin, observation of temperature, observation of pulse and blood pressure, observation of respiratory rate, observation of fluid balance, observation of excretion and observation of mobility.