What is the significance of a patient's "baseline" vital signs?

The significance of a patient's "baseline" vital signs lies in their role as a reference point to assess changes in a patient's condition. Baseline vital signs are the measurements taken when a patient is in their stable state, reflecting how they usually function under normal circumstances. By comparing current vital signs to these baseline values, healthcare providers can detect any deviations from the norm, which may indicate a deterioration or improvement in the patient's health.

For example, if a patient’s baseline heart rate is typically around 70 beats per minute, and in a subsequent assessment, it is recorded at 100 beats per minute, this observed change could signify a developing medical issue that requires further investigation or intervention. Therefore, recognizing and understanding baseline vital signs is crucial for effective monitoring and decision-making in patient care.