Assessing, measuring and monitoring vital signs in infants, children and young people

Sleeping child in ICU bed
This resource provides guidance on assessing, measuring and monitoring vital signs in infants, children, and young people across various health care settings. It covers key skills, including observation, communication and the use of tools like Paediatric Early Warning Scores (PEWS).

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Resource
Available to RCN members

Who is this resource aimed at?

This resource is aimed at nurses and nursing support workers across all settings and levels of practice, including students of health, social work and care professions. 

What will this resource give me?

  • understand the importance of vital signs assessment in infants, children and young people
  • recognise the key principles of observing and monitoring physiological and emotional wellbeing
  • gain knowledge of tools and systems used to identify and respond to deterioration, such as PEWS
  • learn the standards and practices for accurate measurement and recording of vital signs
  • develop awareness of risk factors requiring enhanced monitoring and intervention
  • explore methods for effective communication with colleagues, parents and carers
  • understand the role of medical devices and equipment in vital signs monitoring
  • learn how to support children and families during assessments to reduce distress
  • gain insight into training and competency requirements for health care practitioners
  • understand the application of national and local policies in clinical practice.
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    Resource last reviewed

    14 Jan 2025

    The RCN delivers quality-assured and up-to-date resources for the nursing workforce. Reviewed annually in line with the RCN Quality Assurance policy, all RCN Learn resources meet the RCN’s Nine Quality Standards.