BP

Question 1

hypotension

Answer 1

● Decrease in BP below normal; SBP <90 mmHg or DBP <60 mmHg
● Decrease in BP resulting in inadequate blood flow to the heart, brain, and other vital organs
● Can be due to bed rest, drugs, arrhythmias, blood loss or shock, or MI

Question 2

orthostatic hypotension

Answer 2

● Sudden drop in BP due to change in position; usually, from supine to an upright
position
● Drop in SBP of >20 mmHg and/or drop in DBP of >10 mmHg
➤ Assess BP and HR when patient has been supine at rest for 5 minutes
➤ Then, have the patient move directly into standing position. Repeat assessment of
BP and HR after 3 minutes in standing position
● S/S: light-headedness, dizziness, pallor, diaphoresis, syncope, loss of balance, leg
weakness
➤ If patient experiences S/S, have them move from standing to a sitting position or
from sitting with legs elevated to a reclined position