Medical Assistant Certification (MAC) AMCA Practice Exam

A blood pressure reading of 148/96 is classified as what stage?

1. Normal

2. Prehypertension

3. Stage 1 Hypertension

4. Stage 2 Hypertension

The correct answer is: Stage 1 Hypertension

A blood pressure reading of 148/96 falls into the category of Stage 1 Hypertension according to the American Heart Association's blood pressure classification. Blood pressure is categorized based on systolic and diastolic measurements: - Normal blood pressure is defined as any reading below 120/80 mmHg. - Prehypertension is classified as a systolic reading between 120-139 mmHg or a diastolic reading between 80-89 mmHg. - Stage 1 Hypertension is classified as a systolic reading between 130-139 mmHg or a diastolic reading between 80-89 mmHg. - Stage 2 Hypertension is any reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher. Given that the systolic reading of 148 is higher than the threshold for Stage 1, and the diastolic reading of 96 surpasses the 90 mmHg limit for Stage 2, this specific reading fits clearly into the criteria for Stage 1 Hypertension, as it indicates a need for lifestyle modifications or potential medication intervention to lower the blood pressure.