Nursing Process Test Questions Related

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Postural Hypotension is A drop in systolic pressure less than 10 mmHg when patient changes position from lying to sitting.

  • A. A drop in systolic pressure greater than 10 mmHg when patient changes position from lying to sitting
  • B. A drop in diastolic pressure less than 10 mmHg when patient changes position from lying to sitting
  • C. A drop in diastolic pressure greater than 10 mmHg when patient changes position from lying to sitting
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because postural hypotension is defined as a drop in systolic blood pressure of greater than 20 mmHg or a drop in diastolic blood pressure of greater than 10 mmHg within 3 minutes of standing from a sitting or supine position. Therefore, a drop in systolic pressure greater than 10 mmHg when changing from lying to sitting is indicative of postural hypotension.

Choice B is incorrect as postural hypotension is primarily defined by changes in systolic blood pressure, not diastolic. Choice C is incorrect because a drop in diastolic pressure greater than 10 mmHg is not the defining characteristic of postural hypotension. Choice D is not provided.