Question

The difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure can be palpated and is known as ________.

Select one:
a. mean arterial pressure
b. hypertension
c. pulse
d. cardiac output

Answer 1

The difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure is known as pulse pressure. It is calculated by subtracting diastolic pressure from systolic pressure, for example, a systolic/diastolic reading of 120/80 mm Hg results in a pulse pressure of 40 mmHg.

Step-by-step explanation:

The difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure can be palpated and is known as pulse pressure. When measuring systemic arterial blood pressure, we obtain a ratio—with the higher value reflecting the systolic pressure during ventricular contraction and the lower one showing the diastolic pressure during ventricular relaxation. To calculate the pulse pressure, you simply subtract the diastolic pressure from the systolic pressure. For instance, if the systolic pressure is 120 mm Hg and the diastolic is 80 mm Hg, the calculated pulse pressure would be 40 mmHg.