Question

You have a patient with a very low blood pressure of 80/60 mm hg. what are the possible consequences of this low blood pressure on capillary function?

a. mean arterial pressure (map) would not be high enough for adequate capillary exchange to occur.
b. capillaries may rupture tissues would become ischemic because of lack of adequate perfusion.
c. both a and c are correct.
d. all of the choices are correct.

Answer 1

The consequences of low blood pressure (80/60 mm Hg) on capillary function include inadequate mean arterial pressure for capillary exchange leading to ischemia and potentially hypoxia. The correct option is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

A patient with very low blood pressure, such as 80/60 mm Hg, can face several consequences regarding capillary function. Firstly, the mean arterial pressure (MAP) may not be high enough to sustain adequate capillary exchange, which can lead to tissues not receiving enough blood and oxygen (ischemia).

Furthermore, if the blood pressure falls below the range of 70-110 mm Hg for an extended period, there could be a risk of ischemia due to insufficient blood flow leading to hypoxia or inadequate oxygenation of tissues. Neurons are particularly sensitive to hypoxia and may be damaged or die if not addressed rapidly.

Capillaries are unlikely to rupture because they are designed to withstand even lower pressures; hence, while an 80/60 mm Hg blood pressure is concerning, capillary rupture is not a common consequence.

The correct answer to the question would thus be: Option A, mean arterial pressure would not be high enough for adequate capillary exchange to occur. The correct option is A.