If a patient’s blood pressure is 138/82, it is considered
a. Normal
b. Hypotension
c. Prehypertension
d. Stage 1 hypertension
e. Stage 2 hypertension
Using the formula to convert degrees Fahrenheit to degrees Celsius, determine which of the following is equal to 99.8°F (round to the nearest tenth).
a. 37.7°C
b. 37.7°F
c. 37.6°C
d. 35.8°C
e. 36.7°C
The correct answer and explanation is:
Answers:
- The patient’s blood pressure of 138/82 is considered:
d. Stage 1 Hypertension - 99.8°F converted to Celsius (C) is:
a. 37.7°C
Explanation:
Blood Pressure Classification:
Blood pressure (BP) is categorized based on systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) readings. The classifications are:
- Normal: Below 120/80 mmHg
- Elevated (Prehypertension): 120-129/<80 mmHg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
- Stage 2 Hypertension: ≥140/90 mmHg
- Hypertensive Crisis: ≥180/120 mmHg (Requires immediate medical attention)
Since the patient’s systolic BP is 138 (within the 130-139 range) and diastolic BP is 82 (within the 80-89 range), this falls under Stage 1 Hypertension according to the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines.
Converting Fahrenheit to Celsius:
The formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius is:
[
C = \frac{(F – 32) \times 5}{9}
]
Plugging in 99.8°F:
[
C = \frac{(99.8 – 32) \times 5}{9}
]
[
C = \frac{67.8 \times 5}{9}
]
[
C = \frac{339}{9} = 37.7°C
]
Thus, the correct answer is 37.7°C (Option a).
Health Implications:
- Stage 1 Hypertension increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Lifestyle changes like reducing salt intake, exercising, and managing stress can help lower blood pressure.
- A body temperature of 37.7°C (99.8°F) is slightly elevated but still within the normal range. However, it may indicate a mild fever if the person is feeling unwell.
Now, I will generate an image related to blood pressure classification.
Here is the medical infographic illustrating blood pressure categories. Let me know if you need any modifications or further explanations!
