Question 50

The abnormal value in a blood pressure reading of 180/78 is the systolic.

In the blood pressure reading of 180/78, the systolic value of 180 is considered abnormal, as normal systolic blood pressure is typically below 120 mmHg. The diastolic value of 78 falls within a normal range.

A) systolic

This option is correct because the systolic pressure, which is the first number in a blood pressure reading, indicates the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats. A reading of 180 is significantly elevated, indicating hypertension.

B) brachial

The brachial pressure refers to the blood pressure measured in the brachial artery, typically used for blood pressure readings. This option is incorrect as it does not identify a specific abnormal value within the reading itself.

C) radial

Radial pressure pertains to the blood pressure measured at the radial artery, usually at the wrist. This is incorrect as it does not apply to the blood pressure reading provided and does not indicate an abnormal value.

D) diastolic

The diastolic pressure of 78 is within the normal range, which is typically between 60 and 80 mmHg. Therefore, this option is incorrect as it does not represent an abnormal value in the reading.

Conclusion

The systolic value of 180 in the blood pressure reading is definitively the abnormal value, indicating a significant risk for cardiovascular issues. All other options either refer to normal or irrelevant pressure measurements, failing to identify the concerning aspect of the reading presented.