What are measurements of body functions, such as pulse and blood pressure, referred to as?

Vital signs are a specific set of measurements that provide critical information about a person's physiological status. They typically include pulse rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and temperature. These measurements are integral to monitoring the health of a patient, helping to indicate the body’s response to various conditions or treatments.

While "objective data" encompasses measurable and observable findings that can be verified, including laboratory results and the physical examination findings, vital signs represent a core subset of objective data focused specifically on immediate health metrics.

"Clinical indicators" often refer to broader health measurements or markers used to evaluate the quality of care or outcomes rather than the immediate health functions assessed through vital signs.

"Assessment tools" could refer to various instruments or methods employed in healthcare to evaluate a patient's condition, but they do not specifically denote the standard measurements like pulse and blood pressure.

By accurately capturing and interpreting vital signs, healthcare professionals can make informed decisions regarding a patient’s care and quickly respond to potential health crises.