Question

Which of the following is an example of a correct way to write a blood pressure reading?

1) 120/80
2) 80/120
3) 120/120
4) 80/80

Answer 1

A blood pressure reading is correctly written as systolic over diastolic, with the higher number first. The correct way to write a blood pressure reading from the options provided is '120/80,' commonly expressed as 'one twenty over eighty.'

Step-by-step explanation:

Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers, typically recorded as a ratio with the systolic pressure over the diastolic pressure. The systolic pressure is the higher number and reflects the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, while the diastolic pressure is the lower number and indicates the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats. The correct way to write a blood pressure reading, therefore, is 120/80, which is interpreted as 'one twenty over eighty.'

When systemic arterial blood pressure is measured, this ratio is crucial for understanding the health of the cardiovascular system. The systolic reading, usually around 120 mm Hg for a healthy adult, reflects the arterial pressure during ventricular contraction. Meanwhile, the diastolic reading, about 80 mm Hg in a healthy adult, represents the arterial pressure during ventricular relaxation. Variations in blood pressure can occur due to a multitude of factors such as exercise, emotions, sleep, stress, nutrition, and health conditions.