noun

vitals

VIE-tuhlz/ˈvaɪtlz/

Basic measurements of how the body is functioning.

The nurse checks his vitals during the examination.

Nurse checks adult patient's pulse while thermometer and blood-pressure cuff nearby, basic body signs, no numbers or writing.

Etymology

vitLatinlife

+alLatinpertaining to

+sEnglishplural

Vita, “life,” gives vital its meaning “of or belonging to life.” In the selected medical sense, vitals names measurements used to assess the body's essential life processes.

In context

AMC CLINICALS - Hustle Hub63:40

So can I please know the vitals of my patient? What do you want to know? Um can I know the blood pressure both sitting and standing?

Intro & Handbook Discussion

More examples

His vitals remained stable throughout the night.
The chart records vitals taken every hour.
A monitor displayed her vitals beside the bed.

Forms

vitals

Similar words

vital signs: The full medical expression for these basic measurements.