How to read a hospital heart monitor: 9 vital signs you need to know

When entering a patient room, many people are often overwhelmed by the array of numbers, graphs, and beeping sounds from the monitoring screens. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases currently cause about 17.9 million deaths each year, making vital sign monitoring an indispensable part of patient care. However, not everyone knows how to read patient monitor readings or understand the meaning of each displayed parameter.

If you are looking to understand hospital heart rate monitors, learn how to read patient monitor readings, or wonder how hospital ventilators work, this article will help you grasp important information in an easy-to-understand way. Tiptory will guide you on how to identify common parameters on monitoring screens, the meaning of waveforms, and essential notes to help you better understand your loved one's health status during hospital treatment, and know when to communicate directly with doctors or nurses.

How to read monitor readings

Understanding basic information on patient monitors

Although each manufacturer has a different display interface, most hospital devices provide important vital signs following similar principles. When you know how to read patient monitor readings, you will easily understand the patient's health status better. However, these parameters always need to be evaluated by a doctor or nurse in conjunction with clinical symptoms.

Green line indicates heart rate and electrical heart rate

• The green waveform typically represents the electrocardiogram (ECG), which monitors the electrical activity of the heart over time.
• The accompanying flashing number indicates the heart rate, calculated as the number of heartbeats per minute (BPM).
• In resting adults, a normal heart rate typically ranges from about 60–100 beats/minute, though it can vary depending on age, health status, and activity level.
• When checking a hospital heart rate monitor, this is usually the first parameter observed to assess if the heart is beating regularly and stably.

White line indicates respiratory rate

• The white waveform reflects the patient's respiratory rate.
• This indicator shows the number of breaths per minute.
• In healthy adults, the resting respiratory rate usually falls between 12–20 breaths/minute.
• If the respiratory rate increases, decreases, or appears abnormal, medical staff will combine it with other signs to determine the cause.

Blue line displays blood oxygen saturation (SpO₂)

• The blue waveform is often linked to the oxygen sensor attached to the fingertip or earlobe.
• The SpO₂ value indicates the percentage of hemoglobin carrying oxygen in the blood.
• In most healthy adults, SpO₂ between 95–100% is considered normal. In many clinical cases, doctors may aim for an SpO₂ of 90% or higher, or according to the specific pathology of each individual.
• If you are reading patient monitor readings, SpO₂ is a very important parameter for assessing the body's ability to supply oxygen.
• For patients on a hospital ventilator, the SpO₂ value is continuously monitored to help adjust oxygen supply and respiratory parameters as needed.

Two systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings

• The monitor usually displays two blood pressure values, for example 120/80 mmHg.
• The upper number is systolic blood pressure, representing the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.
• The lower number is diastolic blood pressure, reflecting the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats.
• Blood pressure can vary with age, medical condition, medications, and time of measurement, so it needs to be evaluated by a doctor in a clinical context rather than relying on a single reading.

Parameter 1: How to read heart rate (PR)

Understanding the heart rate (PR) parameter

• PR (Pulse Rate) is the parameter that indicates the heart rate, meaning the number of heartbeats per minute (BPM).
• When reading patient monitor readings, you typically see PR displayed in the upper right corner of the screen or near the ECG parameter, depending on the device type.
• This is one of the important parameters when checking a hospital heart rate monitor, helping medical staff monitor heart activity in real-time.

What is a normal heart rate?

• In healthy resting adults, a normal heart rate typically ranges from 60–100 beats/minute.
• Some factors can temporarily change PR without being a sign of danger, including:
  • Sitting up or changing position.
  • Walking, exercising, or physical activity.
  • Talking, emotional arousal, or stress.
  • Pain, fever, or anxiety.
• Therefore, when reading patient monitor readings, one should not assess health status based solely on a single PR value at one time.

Why might heart rate increase?

• People with illnesses, injuries, or who have recently undergone surgery often have higher resting heart rates than normal.
• This can be a natural bodily response to pain, infection, dehydration, or stress.
• Patient monitors are set with alarm thresholds. If PR exceeds the established safe limit, the system will trigger an alert for immediate medical staff review.
• When checking a hospital heart rate monitor, an alarm sound does not always signify a critical condition but merely indicates a parameter that requires further evaluation.

Athletes may have lower than normal heart rates

• Individuals who regularly engage in endurance training, such as long-distance runners, cyclists, or swimmers, may have a resting heart rate of only about 40–60 beats/minute.
• This occurs because the heart muscle is stronger and pumps more blood with each beat, so the heart does not need to beat as quickly to meet the body's demands.
• Therefore, when reading patient monitor readings, it is necessary to consider the individual's age, physical condition, medical history, and activity level to accurately assess the meaning of the PR value.

Notes when monitoring PR on hospital monitors

• Monitoring the trend of PR changes over many hours or multiple measurements is more valuable than a single number.
• Always combine PR with other parameters such as blood pressure, SpO₂, respiratory rate, and ECG to get a comprehensive view of the patient's condition.
• If the patient is on a hospital ventilator or in intensive care, the PR value will be continuously monitored along with other vital signs to help doctors make timely treatment decisions.

Parameter 2: How to read temperature (TEMP)

Understanding the body temperature (TEMP) parameter

• TEMP (Temperature) is the parameter reflecting body temperature, helping medical staff monitor thermoregulation and detect early signs of abnormalities such as fever or hypothermia.
• When reading patient monitor readings, TEMP usually appears right below the heart rate (PR) parameter, although the position may vary depending on the device type.
• This is one of the important vital signs alongside heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and blood oxygen saturation.

What is a normal body temperature?

• In healthy adults, normal body temperature typically ranges from 36.6–37.2°C.
• If the temperature is above 37.2°C, the patient may have a fever. However, many medical facilities often define a significant fever as a temperature of 38°C or higher, depending on the measurement site and clinical guidelines.
• If the temperature is below 35°C, the patient is considered to have hypothermia and requires prompt evaluation and management.
• When reading patient monitor readings, it's important to note that the normal range can vary slightly depending on the measurement method, such as oral, ear, axillary, or rectal measurement.

Body temperature can fluctuate throughout the day

• Temperature is not a fixed value but changes throughout the day and with body activity.
• Temperature can slightly increase after:
  • Eating and drinking.
  • Physical activity or exercise.
  • Stress or emotional arousal.
• Conversely, temperature can slightly decrease when:
  • Sleeping or resting.
  • In a cold environment.
• These small changes are typically normal physiological responses and do not necessarily reflect pathology.

How to evaluate TEMP more accurately

• One should not conclude that the patient has a fever or hypothermia based on a single measurement.
• Monitor the trend of temperature changes over time and combine it with symptoms such as chills, sweating, shivering, or altered consciousness.
• When reading patient monitor readings, doctors will evaluate TEMP along with other parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and SpO₂ to accurately determine the health status and appropriate treatment plan.

Parameter 3: How to read SpO₂

Understanding the SpO₂ parameter

• SpO₂ (Peripheral Oxygen Saturation) is the parameter indicating peripheral blood oxygen saturation, reflecting the percentage of hemoglobin carrying oxygen to the body's organs.
• When reading patient monitor readings, SpO₂ is an important parameter for assessing respiratory function and oxygen delivery capacity.
• This parameter is typically displayed as a percentage (%) on the monitoring screen or on a specialized SpO₂ monitor.

What is a normal SpO₂?

• In most healthy adults, a normal SpO₂ typically ranges from 95–100%.
• A value of 90–94% may indicate lower than normal blood oxygen levels and requires close monitoring, especially if the patient experiences shortness of breath or has lung disease.
• If SpO₂ is below 90%, this is a significant hypoxemia and the patient may require oxygen support or medical intervention as prescribed by a doctor.
• Some individuals with chronic lung diseases, such as COPD, may have a lower SpO₂ target set by their doctor compared to healthy individuals.

How is SpO₂ measured?

• SpO₂ is typically measured using a pulse oximeter or a sensor attached to a finger, toe, or earlobe.
• The device uses light to estimate the amount of oxygen in the blood without needing a blood sample.
• When reading the values on a patient monitor, you may also see an accompanying Pleth waveform, which helps assess the quality of the measurement signal.

When does the SpO₂ value appear on the monitor screen?

• Not all patient monitors display continuous SpO₂.
• This value is often monitored when the patient:
  • Requires respiratory or circulatory monitoring.
  • Has lung conditions such as pneumonia, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
  • Has COVID-19 or other conditions that cause hypoxemia.
  • Is undergoing surgery, resuscitation, or treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU).
• If you are looking at a hospital ventilator, SpO₂ is almost always one of the continuously monitored parameters to assess the effectiveness of respiratory support.

Notes when reading SpO₂ values

• Do not assess health based solely on a single SpO₂ value, as the result can be affected by movement, cold hands, nail polish, poor circulation, or an improperly placed sensor.
• The doctor will combine SpO₂ with respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure, clinical symptoms, and other tests to make an accurate diagnosis.
• When reading the values on a patient monitor, monitoring the trend of SpO₂ over time is often more valuable than a single measurement at one point.

Indicator 4: How to read respiratory rate (RR)

Understanding the meaning of respiratory rate (RR)

• RR (Respiration Rate) is the indicator for respiratory rate, which is the number of breaths (inhalations and exhalations) per minute.
• When reading the values on a patient monitor, RR is a vital sign that helps assess respiratory function and overall health.
• This value is usually displayed as a number or combined with a respiratory waveform on the monitor screen.

What is a normal respiratory rate?

• In resting adults, a normal respiratory rate typically ranges from 12–20 breaths/minute. Although some older literature used a range of 12–16 breaths/minute, current clinical guidelines generally accept 12–20 breaths/minute.
• RR can vary due to:
  • Age.
  • Activity level.
  • Emotions or stress.
  • Medical conditions.
• When reading the values on a patient monitor, RR should be assessed along with other vital signs rather than relying on a single parameter.

Why might respiratory rate increase?

• Respiratory rate usually increases when the body needs more oxygen or is reacting to an illness.
• Some common causes include:
  • Fever.
  • Exercise or physical activity.
  • Pain or anxiety.
  • Infection.
  • Heart or lung disease.
• In many cases, a slight increase in RR during a fever is a normal physiological response. However, if the increase is prolonged or accompanied by other symptoms, the patient needs to be evaluated by medical staff.

Recognizing signs of shortness of breath that require attention

• When looking at a hospital ventilator or reading the values on a patient monitor, you should not just look at the RR number but also observe the patient.
• Immediately notify medical staff if the patient has signs such as:
  • Rapid or very fast breathing.
  • Shallow breathing, unable to take deep breaths.
  • Difficulty breathing, feeling breathless or having to exert effort to breathe.
  • Bluish lips, fingertips, or decreased consciousness.
• If the patient is hospitalized and exhibits these symptoms, use the nurse call button for timely assessment and treatment.

Notes when monitoring RR values

• RR can change continuously throughout the day, so the trend of changes over time is often more significant than a single measurement.
• The doctor will combine RR with other parameters such as SpO₂, heart rate, blood pressure, and clinical status to assess respiratory function and determine appropriate treatment.
• When reading the values on a patient monitor, remember that the RR value only reflects the number of breaths, while respiratory quality still needs to be assessed through direct observation and examination by medical staff.

Indicator 5: How to read systolic blood pressure (SYST)

Understanding the meaning of systolic blood pressure (SYST)

• SYST (Systolic Blood Pressure) is systolic blood pressure, reflecting the pressure of blood against the artery walls when the heart contracts to pump blood throughout the body.
• When reading the values on a patient monitor, SYST is usually displayed along with diastolic blood pressure (DIA) in the lower or lower right corner of the screen, depending on the device type.
• This is one of the important parameters that helps doctors evaluate the function of the cardiovascular system and circulatory status.

What is a normal systolic blood pressure?

• In adults, normal systolic blood pressure typically ranges from 90–120 mmHg.
• If SYST is below 90 mmHg, the patient may have low blood pressure and needs to be evaluated if accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or extreme fatigue.
• If SYST is 140 mmHg or higher, this is considered high blood pressure according to many previous guidelines. However, the diagnosis of hypertension now requires multiple measurements and adherence to current professional guidelines.
• When reading the values on a patient monitor, a conclusion should not be made from a single measurement because blood pressure can vary over time.

SYST is always evaluated with the DIA value

• Blood pressure always consists of two values:
  • SYST: Systolic blood pressure, measured when the heart contracts.
  • DIA: Diastolic blood pressure, measured when the heart relaxes between beats.
• These two values are often recorded as a pair of numbers, for example 120/80 mmHg.
• Although on patient monitors they may be displayed in two separate locations or lines, doctors always evaluate them as a complete blood pressure result.

Factors that can change systolic blood pressure

• The SYST value can temporarily increase or decrease due to many factors such as:
  • Exercise or change in posture.
  • Stress, anxiety, or pain.
  • Fever.
  • Effects of medication.
  • Dehydration or blood loss.
• Therefore, when reading the values on a patient monitor, it is necessary to monitor the trend of blood pressure changes rather than focusing on a single result.

Notes when monitoring SYST values

• Blood pressure needs to be assessed along with other vital signs such as heart rate (PR), respiratory rate (RR), temperature (TEMP), and SpO₂ to fully reflect the patient's condition.
• If you are looking at a hospital heart rate monitor or looking at a hospital ventilator, systolic blood pressure is also an important indicator to help medical staff monitor circulatory capacity and treatment response.
• Only a doctor or medical professional can make an accurate conclusion after combining the SYST value with clinical symptoms, medical history, and related test results.

Indicator 6: How to read diastolic blood pressure (DIAS)

Understanding the meaning of diastolic blood pressure (DIAS)

• DIAS (Diastolic Blood Pressure) is diastolic blood pressure, reflecting the pressure of blood against the artery walls when the heart relaxes between beats.
• When reading the values on a patient monitor, DIAS is often displayed along with systolic blood pressure (SYST) to assess circulatory status and cardiovascular health.
• This is one of the important vital signs regularly monitored in hospitals.

What is a normal diastolic blood pressure?

• In adults, normal diastolic blood pressure typically ranges from 60–80 mmHg.
• If DIAS is below 60 mmHg, the patient may have low blood pressure, especially if symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting occur.
• If DIAS is 90 mmHg or higher, this is considered high blood pressure according to many clinical guidelines and needs to be evaluated by a doctor in conjunction with systolic blood pressure and other risk factors.
• When reading the values on a patient monitor, it's important to remember that blood pressure can change over time, so conclusions should not be made based on a single reading.

How to read blood pressure results on the monitor

• Blood pressure is always expressed as two values:
  • SYST: Systolic blood pressure.
  • DIAS: Diastolic blood pressure.
• When reading the results, read them in the order of systolic blood pressure/diastolic blood pressure.
• For example:
  • If the screen displays SYST = 110 mmHg and DIAS = 75 mmHg, the result will be read as 110/75 mmHg (read as "110 over 75").
• This is the standard representation in medicine and is used when recording medical records or communicating between healthcare professionals.

The importance of monitoring both SYST and DIAS

• Do not focus solely on the DIAS or SYST value alone.
• Doctors will simultaneously evaluate both indicators to determine:
  • If blood pressure is normal, elevated, or low.
  • The ability of blood circulation.
  • The effectiveness of blood pressure medication or resuscitation measures.
• When reading the parameters on a patient monitor, tracking the trend of changes in both indicators over time is often more valuable than a single measurement.

Notes on monitoring blood pressure on a hospital monitor

• Blood pressure can change due to movement, pain, stress, fever, medication, or the patient's position.
• If you are looking at a hospital heart rate monitor or looking at a hospital ventilator, remember that blood pressure is only one part of the vital sign monitoring system and should always be evaluated together with heart rate, respiratory rate, SpO₂, and clinical status.
• All treatment decisions must be based on the doctor's overall assessment, rather than solely on a single blood pressure reading at one point in time.

Parameter 7: How to read ECG waveforms

Understanding the meaning of ECG waveforms

• ECG (Electrocardiogram) is an electrocardiogram, which records the electrical activity of the heart in real time.
• When reading parameters on a patient monitor, the ECG waveform is usually at the top of the screen and is one of the most important pieces of information for monitoring heart activity.
• In addition to the ECG waveform, you will often see the PR (Pulse Rate) or HR (Heart Rate), which indicates the number of heartbeats per minute.

How to identify ECG waveforms on the screen

• The ECG appears as a continuous waveform with regularly repeating sharp peaks.
• Each wave cluster on the ECG represents a cycle of heart activity, including the process of the heart contracting and relaxing.
• For non-specialists, you do not need to analyze each small wave but only need to observe:
  • Whether the wave peaks appear regularly.
  • Whether the interval between beats is stable.
• When looking at a hospital heart rate monitor, regularly appearing wave peaks usually indicate stable heart activity. However, determining whether the heart rate is normal or abnormal must still be evaluated by medical personnel.

Why doctors don't rely solely on one ECG trace?

• Reading and analyzing electrocardiograms is a specialized skill that requires systematic training.
• An ECG waveform on a patient monitor only helps to continuously monitor heart activity; it is not sufficient to diagnose all cardiovascular disorders.
• If an abnormality is detected, the doctor may order a 12-lead electrocardiogram or other specialized tests to determine the cause.

How is the ECG on the monitor recorded?

• In hospitals, ECG waveforms are usually recorded via electrodes placed on the patient's skin.
• On many patient monitors, the default waveform displayed often uses signals from lead II, which helps monitor heart rate continuously.
• If a more detailed assessment is needed, medical personnel will attach additional electrodes at various positions on the chest and limbs to record a full electrocardiogram.

Notes when observing ECG waveforms

• Do not self-diagnose heart disease based solely on the shape of the ECG waveform on the screen.
• The waveform may be distorted by patient movement, poor electrode contact with the skin, or equipment affected by external factors.
• When reading parameters on a patient monitor, observe the ECG in conjunction with other parameters such as heart rate (PR/HR), blood pressure, respiratory rate (RR), and SpO₂ to get an overall view of the patient's condition.
• If you are looking at a hospital ventilator or monitoring a loved one in the intensive care unit, any abnormalities on the ECG waveform must be confirmed by a doctor or nurse and managed according to the patient's clinical condition.

Parameter 8: How to read SpO₂ waveform on the screen

Understanding the meaning of SpO₂ waveform

• The SpO₂ waveform (Plethysmographic waveform or Pleth wave) is a waveform that shows changes in blood flow at the sensor site, usually a fingertip, toe, or earlobe.
• When reading parameters on a patient monitor, the SpO₂ waveform is usually located below the ECG waveform and is blue or red, depending on the machine model.
• This waveform helps medical personnel assess the quality of the SpO₂ measurement signal and the status of peripheral circulation, rather than directly measuring the electrical activity of the heart.

How to observe SpO₂ waveform

• Each SpO₂ waveform peak usually appears corresponding to a heartbeat.
• When the SpO₂ waveform and heart rate are stable, it indicates that the sensor is receiving a good signal and oxygen-rich blood is being pumped to the peripheral tissues.
• If you are looking at a hospital heart rate monitor, the regular appearance of SpO₂ waveform peaks with each heartbeat is usually a sign that the measurement signal is stable. However, relying solely on the waveform shape cannot definitively conclude that circulation or heart function is completely normal.

What does the SpO₂ waveform help doctors assess?

• In addition to the SpO₂ percentage displayed, the Pleth waveform also assists medical personnel in:
  • Checking the quality of the measurement signal.
  • Assessing blood flow to the extremities.
  • Monitoring changes in circulation during treatment or resuscitation.
• For someone looking at a hospital ventilator, the SpO₂ waveform combined with the SpO₂ value helps doctors monitor the effectiveness of oxygen delivery and the patient's response over time.

Do not self-interpret SpO₂ waveform shapes

• Analyzing SpO₂ waveforms requires specialized knowledge and clinical experience.
• Doctors and nurses are trained to recognize waveform changes to help assess circulatory status, but they do not use these waveforms as an independent diagnostic criterion.
• When reading parameters on a patient monitor, family members should focus on monitoring basic parameters such as SpO₂, heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, and communicate with medical staff if they have any questions.

Notes when monitoring SpO₂ waveform

• The waveform shape can be affected by patient movement, cold hands, poor peripheral circulation, or an improperly placed sensor.
• A good SpO₂ waveform does not mean the patient is completely healthy, and conversely, a distorted or weak waveform does not always reflect a serious medical condition.
• When reading parameters on a patient monitor, doctors will always combine the SpO₂ waveform with the SpO₂ value, ECG, heart rate, blood pressure, and clinical manifestations to make an accurate assessment of the patient's condition.

Parameter 9: How to read respiratory waveform on the screen

Understanding the meaning of respiratory waveform

• The respiratory waveform is a waveform that reflects the patient's respiratory rate and breathing pattern over time.
• When reading parameters on a patient monitor, the respiratory waveform is usually located at the bottom of the screen and is yellow or white, depending on the type of machine.
• Not all patient monitors display respiratory waveforms. This parameter is usually monitored when the patient has a respiratory illness or requires continuous respiratory monitoring.

How to observe respiratory waveform

• Each up and down cycle of the waveform corresponds to one inhalation and exhalation.
• A regular, continuous waveform usually indicates that the respiratory rate is being recorded stably.
• If the waveform changes suddenly, disappears, or appears abnormally, the machine may issue an alert for medical personnel to check the patient and the signal quality.
• When reading parameters on a patient monitor, the respiratory waveform should be evaluated along with the RR (Respiration Rate) to get a more complete picture of respiratory function.

What does the respiratory waveform help doctors assess?

• The respiratory waveform assists doctors and nurses in monitoring:
  • Whether the respiratory rate is regular.
  • The patient's breathing pattern over time.
  • Abnormal changes during treatment or resuscitation.
• For someone looking at a hospital ventilator, the respiratory waveform also helps medical personnel monitor the synchrony between the patient's breathing and the ventilator, thereby adjusting parameters when necessary.

Early detection of respiratory abnormalities

• Medical staff use respiratory waveforms in combination with other parameters to detect early:
  • Apnea: The patient temporarily stops breathing for a period of time.
  • Dyspnea: The patient has labored breathing, feels short of breath, or cannot breathe normally.
• However, the diagnosis of these conditions is not based solely on respiratory waveforms but also requires a combination of clinical symptoms and other monitoring devices.

Notes when monitoring respiratory waveform

• The respiratory waveform can be affected by patient movement, coughing, talking, or an unstable sensor.
• If the machine alarms or the respiratory waveform changes abnormally, do not try to deduce the cause yourself but inform medical staff for examination.
• When reading parameters on a patient monitor, combine observing the respiratory waveform with RR, SpO₂, heart rate, and the patient's actual condition to fully understand respiratory function.

Notes when monitoring hospital machines

Stay calm when caring for a loved one in the hospital

• Having a loved one hospitalized can make you anxious and stressed, especially when seeing many monitoring devices working continuously.
• Take time to rest, eat well, and stay healthy so you can accompany the patient throughout the treatment process.
• If you feel too much pressure or mental exhaustion, you can seek psychological counseling services or talk to medical staff at the hospital if this service is provided.

Do not worry too much about a single parameter

• When reading the parameters on a patient monitor, do not focus solely on one abnormal number.
• Doctors will simultaneously evaluate multiple vital signs such as:
  • Heart rate (PR/HR).
  • Blood pressure (SYST/DIAS).
  • Respiratory rate (RR).
  • Blood oxygen saturation (SpO₂).
  • Body temperature (TEMP).
• In addition to the parameters on the screen, doctors also combine symptoms, medical history, test results, and clinical progression to make treatment decisions.
• Therefore, a temporary reading outside the normal range does not necessarily indicate a dangerous condition.

Understanding Monitor Alarms Correctly

• When viewing a hospital heart rate monitor or viewing a hospital ventilator, you may hear beeps or alarm sounds from the device.
• Alarm sounds can occur for various reasons such as:
  • Vital signs exceeding set thresholds.
  • Patient movement causing sensor displacement.
  • Poor electrode or sensor contact.
  • Device requires checking or calibration.
• Therefore, an alarm sound does not always mean an emergency.

When to Call Medical Staff?

• If the monitor or treatment support device continuously alarms, immediately notify the nurse or on-call doctor.
• Do not arbitrarily adjust buttons, cables, sensors, or parameters on the patient monitor or hospital ventilator, as these devices are configured according to each patient's specific condition.
• If the patient shows signs such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, decreased consciousness, or any abnormal manifestations, call medical staff even if the readings on the screen have not significantly changed.

Consider the Monitor as a Supportive Tool

• Reading the readings on a patient monitor helps you better understand the care process for your loved one, but the numbers on the screen are only one part of the health assessment.
• The true value of the parameters lies in their interpretation by a doctor within the clinical context of each patient.
• If you have any questions about the readings or the meaning of the equipment being used, please discuss directly with the doctor or nurse for an accurate explanation tailored to the patient's condition.

References

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Content edited by: Sidney Bailey Hoang.

Information consulted and verified by expert: James Mitchell.