Vital Signs - Blood Pressure

Vital Signs - Blood Pressure

Blood Pressure

Force of the blood pushing against the artery walls during contraction and relaxation of the heart = blood pressure

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Measured in systolic/diastolic. Systolic is the pressure while the heart is beating, diastolic is the pressure while the heart is relaxed.

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Multiple Choice

What number goes on top of blood pressure reading?

• Systolic

• Diastolic

Multiple Choice

What number goes on the bottom of a blood pressure reading?

• Systolic

• Diastolic

Blood Pressure

​Normal adult blood pressure = 120/80

Hypertension = BP above 130/80 Causes heart to pump harder to circulate Increased risk for heart attack, stroke, heart failure

Systolic rate of 1​21-129 is considered elevated not hypertension

Hypotension = BP below ​90/60 Can causes dizziness, fainting, fatigue and shock

Multiple Choice

What is a blood pressure of 130/85?

• Hypertension

• Hypotension

• Elevated

Multiple Choice

What is a blood pressure of 88/55

• Hypertension

• Hypotension

• Elevated

Multiple Choice

What is a blood pressure of 126/80

• Hypertension

• Hypotension

• Elevated

Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is taken manually with a stethoscope and sphygmomanometer (the blood pressure cuff)

Blood pressure can also be taken by machine with an automated sphygmomanometer. ​

Multiple Choice

What is a sphygmomanometer?

• A stethoscope

• A blood pressure cuff

• A pulse location