What vital sign changes are common in a pregnant patient?

In a pregnant patient, common vital sign changes include decreased blood pressure and increased heart rate. During pregnancy, blood volume increases to support the developing fetus, which typically leads to a lower systemic vascular resistance. As a result, blood pressure may drop somewhat, especially during the second trimester. The body compensates for this lower blood pressure by increasing the heart rate to ensure adequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to both the mother and fetus.

This physiological adaptation is important because a stable blood pressure that is lower than the pre-pregnancy baseline can result in optimal placental perfusion and fetal development. The increased heart rate helps maintain cardiac output, which is necessary given the additional demands placed on the cardiovascular system during pregnancy. Understanding these changes is vital for assessing a pregnant patient's overall health and for recognizing potential complications.