The nurse is teaching the community about blood pressure. What blood pressure finding by the nurse indicates that no changes in therapy are needed for a client with newly diagnosed hypertension?
A.
128/76 mm Hg
B.
128/92 mm Hg
C.
98/56 mm Hg
D.
142/78 mm Hg
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is A. 128/76 mm Hg.
Explanation:
For a client with newly diagnosed hypertension, blood pressure management aims to bring the readings into a target range to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and other complications. Blood pressure is categorized into different stages, and understanding these categories helps determine appropriate therapy adjustments.
1. Blood Pressure Categories:
- Normal: Systolic < 120 mm Hg and Diastolic < 80 mm Hg
- Elevated: Systolic 120-129 mm Hg and Diastolic < 80 mm Hg
- Hypertension Stage 1: Systolic 130-139 mm Hg or Diastolic 80-89 mm Hg
- Hypertension Stage 2: Systolic ≥ 140 mm Hg or Diastolic ≥ 90 mm Hg
Interpretation of the Choices:
- A. 128/76 mm Hg: This reading falls into the “Elevated” category. For a client newly diagnosed with hypertension, this indicates that the current treatment is working towards lowering blood pressure, but it might still need adjustment. However, this reading shows improvement and is closer to a normal range compared to other options.
- B. 128/92 mm Hg: This reading is classified as “Hypertension Stage 1.” Since it shows a diastolic reading of 92 mm Hg, which is above the target range for hypertension management, it suggests that therapy may need to be reassessed.
- C. 98/56 mm Hg: This reading indicates “Hypotension,” with both systolic and diastolic values below the normal range. Although this is not directly related to the need for therapy adjustment in hypertension, it could suggest the need to reassess if there is concern about excessively low blood pressure.
- D. 142/78 mm Hg: This reading falls into “Hypertension Stage 2,” where the systolic value is 142 mm Hg, indicating that the client’s hypertension is not well-controlled, and therapy adjustments are likely necessary.
In summary, 128/76 mm Hg is an indication that the client’s blood pressure is in the elevated range, showing progress, and does not necessarily require immediate changes in therapy if there is an improvement from previously higher levels. However, it is important for continuous monitoring and follow-up to ensure long-term management goals are met.