Which blood pressure reading indicates hypotension in an adult?

Prepare for the Engage Fundamentals RN Vital Signs Test. Master vital sign measurement with detailed flashcards and multiple choice questions, each paired with hints and explanations. Elevate your nursing proficiency!

Multiple Choice

Which blood pressure reading indicates hypotension in an adult?

Explanation:
Low blood pressure is diagnosed when the systolic value is below 90 mm Hg or the diastolic value is below 60 mm Hg. The reading 88/54 mm Hg falls below both normal thresholds, so it indicates hypotension. The other readings stay within typical or high ranges (around normal or elevated for some guidelines), so they do not represent hypotension. In real practice, symptoms and repeated measurements are considered to confirm hypotension, since numbers can vary with posture, activity, and measurement conditions.

Low blood pressure is diagnosed when the systolic value is below 90 mm Hg or the diastolic value is below 60 mm Hg. The reading 88/54 mm Hg falls below both normal thresholds, so it indicates hypotension. The other readings stay within typical or high ranges (around normal or elevated for some guidelines), so they do not represent hypotension. In real practice, symptoms and repeated measurements are considered to confirm hypotension, since numbers can vary with posture, activity, and measurement conditions.

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