vital signs

noun[plural only]2

1. •
   A set of measurements of a patient's condition taken regularly to assess the state of bodily functions: CSM, skin signs, lung sounds, temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and respiration.

   • Read between the lines / What's fucked up, and everything's alright / Check my vital signs / To know I'm still alive, and I walk alone — 2004
2. •
   (figurative) A set of variables or characteristics that indicate the general condition of something.

   • the vital signs of the economy