Wisconsin Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What does an elevated reading over 140/90 indicate?

1. Normal blood pressure

2. Hypertension

3. Hypotension

4. Controlled blood pressure

The correct answer is: Hypertension

An elevated blood pressure reading over 140/90 indicates hypertension, which is a medical condition characterized by persistently high blood pressure levels. Hypertension can lead to various health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems if not managed properly. Blood pressure is measured with two values: the systolic pressure (the top number) represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, and the diastolic pressure (the bottom number) indicates the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats. When the reading exceeds 140/90, it signifies that the force of blood against the vessel walls is consistently too high, warranting further evaluation and potential intervention. Regular monitoring is essential to manage and mitigate the risks associated with high blood pressure. Normal blood pressure typically falls below 120/80, while hypotension is characterized by readings lower than 90/60, indicating inadequate blood flow to organs. Controlled blood pressure would imply that a person's blood pressure is within a healthy range, typically under 140/90 for someone with a history of hypertension, not an elevated reading.