Which vital sign is the first indicator of change in patient condition?

The heart rate serves as a crucial early indicator of changes in a patient's condition. It reflects the body's immediate response to various physiological stresses, such as pain, anxiety, fever, or the onset of illness. An increased or decreased heart rate can signal issues such as infection, dehydration, or heart problems, allowing healthcare providers to detect potential complications earlier. Monitoring heart rate is essential, as it can show changes even before other vital signs, such as blood pressure or temperature, begin to change significantly. This immediacy makes heart rate monitoring a key component of patient assessment and clinical decision-making.