Which vitals are considered normal for an average adult?

• A. Pulse 80-110/min, RR 22-26/min, SBP 130-140, Temp 37.5-38.5°C
• B. Pulse 60-100/min, respiratory rate 12-20/min, systolic BP around 90-120, temperature about 36.5-37.5°C
• C. Pulse 40-60/min, RR 8-12/min, SBP 70-90, Temp 35-36°C
• D. Pulse 100-120/min, RR 16-24/min, SBP 140-160, Temp 38-39°C

Answer: (B)

Normal vital signs for an average adult reflect baseline function of the heart, lungs, blood pressure, and temperature. A healthy baseline is typically a pulse of about 60–100 beats per minute, a respiratory rate of about 12–20 breaths per minute, a systolic blood pressure around 90–120 mmHg, and a body temperature near 36.5–37.5°C. The combination that fits all four of these normal ranges best is the one that is considered normal.

If a set shows a higher heart rate and faster breathing with fever, it suggests a stress response or illness rather than a normal baseline. Values that are very low for heart rate, very slow breathing, low blood pressure, and cooler than normal temperature point away from the average normal range and could indicate a problem. Conversely, a pattern with elevated heart rate, faster breathing, high blood pressure, and fever also deviates from normal.