Key Observations to Report
For each body system, there are key signs and symptoms that something is wrong. Help your clients maintain optimum health by watching for—and reporting—any of the following:
Integumentary System (The Skin):
- Broken skin
- Dry skin
- Bruises or rashes
- Moles that change size or color
- Redness or swelling of the skin
Nervous System
- Signs of dementia or confusion
- Pain
- Seizures
- Unsteadiness
- Insomnia
Cardiovascular System
- Changes in pulse rate and/or blood pressure
- Chest pain
- Signs of a heart attack: pressure or pain in the center of the chest; pain spreading to the shoulders, neck or arms; dizziness, fainting, sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath
- Signs of stroke: dizziness or trouble walking; sudden confusion; trouble speaking or understanding; numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg; slurred speech
Skeletal System
- Pain, stiffness or swelling of the joints
- An unsteady gait
- Difficulty moving or walking
- Falls
Muscular System
- Weakness, pain or swelling of a muscle
- Bruising
- Tremors
- Difficulty moving or walking
Digestive System
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Heartburn
- Bowel incontinence
Respiratory System
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Sneezing
- Shortness of breath; congestion
- Breathing that is faster or slower than normal
Endocrine System
- Symptoms of diabetes: frequent urination; extreme thirst and hunger; losing weight for no reason; fatigue
- Symptoms of thyroid disorders: lack of energy; weight gain or loss; feeling unusually cold or hot; rapid heart beat or palpitations
Sensory System
- Changes in vision
- Problems hearing
- Loss of sensation
Immune System
- Constant fatigue
- Swollen glands
- Colds and sore throats
- Weakness
- Weight loss
Urinary System
- Frequent and/or urgent urination
- Urine leakage or incontinence
- Cloudy or bloody urine
- Dark or foul-smelling urine
- Burning or pain when urinating