Vital Signs  >  Observing General Health

Questions?

What is the most important thing for me to watch for in the person I care for?

Watch for any change. This will include any physical change as well as any change in behavior. Change can be a warning sign of a problem. However, being able to recognize change starts with you knowing the person and what is normal for him or her.


Is there a better time to observe a person?

Watch the person as they perform daily activities in the home. You are more likely to see problems when a person has difficulty performing an activity that has always been very routine.


How do I know if a person is really in pain?

Pain is what the person says it is. You cannot see another person’s pain. It is important to believe what they say, try to understand how it affects them and then help them seek relief.