How far of a deviation in vital signs is not WNL? ie.

ChicagolandRN · Feb 24, 2004

I think WNL is more of an ideal range. It obviously depends on a patient's baseline. For example, I had two patients today with BP's of 80/50. One got a STAT bolus of fluid and got transferred to another unit, and I didn't even call the doc for the other one (he was within his normal limits!)

nocturne716 · Feb 24, 2004

thanks for the info!

KimRN03 · Feb 24, 2004

FYI...most Docs have parameters for vitals. If the vitals deviate from the parameters you should call the doc. Look for this info in the Kardex or chart.

AmyB · Feb 25, 2004

As posted earlier, you should go by what is normal for each client. But, I think that 28 is pretty high for RR in any case.

meownsmile, BSN, RN · Feb 25, 2004

You have to look at the individual patient. A RR of 28 may not be abnormal for a COPDer, or someone in the hospital with pneumonia. However, a 28 for someone with CHF could mean he's heading for big trouble. Check the flow sheets and see where his norm has been and take it from there.