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Good Afternoon, all;

I am currently completing a class for Hemodialysis Tech (I know it's not nursing, but I plan on getting there). One of our test questions is about the term "cardinal signs" used in health care personnel. I have spent an hour or more looking and looking...any directions? I am supposed to know the meaning and find the alternate term for such. :( I don't necessarily want the answer (unless you really want to give it ;) but just where to look?

I have found so much helpful info on this site I have to let out a big "THANK YOU"!! for such great discussions and encouragement in this group.:heartbeat

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Specializes in General adult inpatient psychiatry.

Maybe they mean vital signs? Like temperature, BP, HR, respirations. And I know pain is often considered the 5th vital sign. Good luck!

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Cardinal signs in health care are synonomous/mean the same as signs and symptoms

cardinal signs

the most important clinical signs?temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate etc.. Hope this helps

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Specializes in Corrections, neurology, dialysis.

I started out as a dialysis tech. You're in for a challenging time, but hang in there. There is a long learning curve but dont' give up. Everyone goes through it when they are learning dialysis.

Anyway, cardinal signs for renal failure might be stuff like increased BUN and creatinine, decreased urine specific gravity, uremic fetor, muscle twitching, dependent edema, uremic frost, itching, change in mental status. Stuff like that.

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I believe "Cardinal signs" just means "tell tale signs". For instance, I remember learning the 4 cardinal signs of inflammation:

1. redness

2. pain

3. swelling

4. heat

Hope this helps somewhat!:):):)

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