Prepare for the Galen College of Nursing Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Understand comprehensive explanations and get ready for your test!

Multiple Choice

Given a blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg, what is the pulse pressure?

Pulse pressure is the difference between systolic and diastolic pressures. For a reading of 140/90, subtract 90 from 140 to get 50. So the pulse pressure is 50 mm Hg. This value reflects the force the heart generates with each beat and can indicate arterial stiffness or volume status; in general, a normal pulse pressure is around 40 mm Hg, with higher values suggesting stiffer arteries.

Pulse pressure is the difference between systolic and diastolic pressures. For a reading of 140/90, subtract 90 from 140 to get 50. So the pulse pressure is 50 mm Hg. This value reflects the force the heart generates with each beat and can indicate arterial stiffness or volume status; in general, a normal pulse pressure is around 40 mm Hg, with higher values suggesting stiffer arteries.