Vital signs in hospital patients: a systematic review

Abstract

Objectives: This review was initiated to identify the best available evidence on vital sign measurements in hospital patients.

Method: Inclusion Criteria--Studies that evaluated some aspect of vital signs. Search--Covered all major databases and the references of identified studies. Data Analysis--Because of the nature of identified studies, data were summarised using narrative rather than statistical methods.

Results: A total of 737 papers of which 69 met the inclusion criteria.

Conclusion: This review has highlighted a need for further investigation of issues related to the role, nature and optimal practice of monitoring patient vital signs.