Exam Cram NCLEX RN Practice Questions Related

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What is the correct action regarding thigh pressure when comparing it to arm pressure in an adolescent with high blood pressure?

  • A. The popliteal artery should be auscultated to obtain thigh pressure.
  • B. The best position to measure thigh pressure is the prone position.
  • C. If the blood pressure in the arm is high in an adolescent, then it should be compared with the thigh pressure.
  • D. Thigh pressure is generally higher than arm pressure due to the proximity to the heart and the size of the popliteal vessels.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When blood pressure measured in the arm is significantly elevated, especially in adolescents and young adults, it is crucial to compare it with thigh pressure to assess for coarctation of the aorta. The popliteal artery, not the femoral artery, should be auscultated for the thigh pressure reading as the femoral artery is closer to the placement of the blood pressure cuff. Generally, thigh pressure is higher than arm pressure; however, if there is coarctation of the artery, arm pressures can be higher than thigh pressures. The preferred position for measuring thigh pressure is the prone position, not supine, with the knee slightly bent to facilitate accurate readings.