NCLEX Examination.
Practice Question # 710.
NCLEX Examination.
Blood pressure
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), three successive readings of blood pressure above 140/90 mm Hg indicate hypertension. However, emotional stress caused by physical examination may elevate blood pressure. If the patient’s blood pressure is high, allow him to relax for several minutes and then measure again to rule out stress.
Take two
When assessing a patient’s blood pressure for the first time, take measurements in both arms and use an appropriate-sized cuff. A difference of 10 mm Hg or more between arms may indicate thoracic outlet syndrome or other forms of arterial obstruction.
