Wisconsin Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What is the term for elevated blood pressure readings?

1. Hypertension

2. Arteriosclerosis

3. Hypotension

4. Cardiomyopathy

The correct answer is: Hypertension

Hypertension is the medical term used to describe consistently elevated blood pressure readings. Blood pressure is an important vital sign that indicates the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels. Normal blood pressure is considered to be around 120/80 mmHg. When blood pressure readings are persistently at or above 130/80 mmHg, a diagnosis of hypertension is made. Managing hypertension is critical as it can lead to serious health issues, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage, due to the extra strain it places on the heart and blood vessels. Understanding and recognizing hypertension is crucial for Certified Nursing Assistants, as they play an integral role in monitoring patients' vital signs and ensuring appropriate action is taken. The other terms are related to cardiovascular health but refer to different conditions. Arteriosclerosis refers to the thickening and hardening of the arterial walls, hypotension indicates low blood pressure, and cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle that affects its ability to pump effectively. Each of these conditions has its own implications and management strategies that are distinct from hypertension.