Common value for pulse, bp,RR,SpO2 and temperature
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normal vital signs adult reference values pulse BP respiratory rate SpO2 temperature
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Here are the normal (common) values for vital signs in a healthy adult at rest:
Normal Vital Signs — Healthy Adult at Rest
| Vital Sign | Normal Range | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pulse (Heart Rate) | 60–100 bpm | <60 = bradycardia; >100 = tachycardia |
| Blood Pressure (BP) | 90–120 / 60–80 mmHg | Optimal: <120/80 mmHg; Hypertension: ≥130/80 mmHg (ACC/AHA) |
| Respiratory Rate (RR) | 12–20 breaths/min | <12 = bradypnea; >20 = tachypnea |
| SpO₂ (Oxygen Saturation) | 95–100% | <95% = concern; <90% = hypoxemia requiring intervention |
| Temperature | 36.1–37.2°C (97–99°F) | Fever: ≥38°C (100.4°F); Hypothermia: <35°C (95°F) |
Quick Memory Aid
| Sign | Value |
|---|---|
| Pulse | 60–100 |
| BP | 120/80 (optimal) |
| RR | 12–20 |
| SpO₂ | ≥95% |
| Temp | 37°C / 98.6°F (average) |
Important Context
- Pulse rises with exercise, fever, anxiety, pain, and dehydration; well-trained athletes may normally have rates of 40–60 bpm.
- BP is affected by age, position (orthostatic changes), and medications. Readings should be taken after 5 minutes of rest.
- RR is the most frequently overlooked vital sign — an RR >25 is a red flag for respiratory distress.
- SpO₂ values 94–95% may be acceptable in COPD patients where chronic hypoxia is baseline; however, targets vary by condition.
- Temperature varies by site: rectal temperature is ~0.5°C higher than oral; axillary is ~0.5°C lower than oral.
Site-Specific Temperature Norms
| Site | Normal Range |
|---|---|
| Oral | 36.1–37.2°C (97–99°F) |
| Rectal | 36.6–37.9°C (97.9–100.2°F) |
| Axillary | 35.5–36.9°C (95.9–98.4°F) |
| Tympanic | ~37°C (98.6°F) |
Sources: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine 22E; Rosen's Emergency Medicine; Medtronic Normal Vital Signs Reference Card
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