A 20 year old is found to have blood pressures of 134/82 and 136/83 on two separate occasions. He will be classified as:
**Core Concept**
The question is testing the student's understanding of blood pressure classification according to the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines. The AHA defines blood pressure categories based on systolic and diastolic blood pressure values, with high normal blood pressure being a critical intermediate category that warrants monitoring and lifestyle modifications.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is B. High normal BP because the patient's blood pressure values (134/82 and 136/83) fall within the high normal range, which is defined as a systolic blood pressure of 120-129 mmHg and a diastolic blood pressure of less than 80 mmHg. This category is considered a precursor to hypertension and requires careful monitoring and management to prevent the development of hypertension. The patient's blood pressure is not high enough to be classified as stage 1 or stage 2 hypertension, but is above the normal range, making high normal BP the correct classification.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Normotensive refers to a blood pressure that falls within the normal range, typically defined as a systolic blood pressure of less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic blood pressure of less than 80 mmHg. The patient's blood pressure values are above the normal range, making normotensive an incorrect classification.
**Option C:** Stage 1 hypertension is defined as a systolic blood pressure of 130-139 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure of 80-89 mmHg. The patient's blood pressure values are below these thresholds, making stage 1 hypertension an incorrect classification.
**Option D:** Stage 2 hypertension is defined as a systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg or higher or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher. The patient's blood pressure values are below these thresholds, making stage 2 hypertension an incorrect classification.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that high normal blood pressure requires regular monitoring and lifestyle modifications to prevent the development of hypertension. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, following a balanced diet, and managing stress levels.
**✓ Correct Answer: B. High normal BP**