Online Companion: Fundamentals of Nursing Standards and Practice 2E

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between high blood pressure and hypertension?

These two terms are used interchangeably to indicate a medical condition in which an individual has persistent systolic blood pressure greater than 135 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure greater than 90 mm Hg. The medical term for this condition is hypertension and the individual should be treated for it by a medical professional. There are occasions when the nurse measures a client's blood pressure and the value exceeds the norms for the client's age. This may be a transient event, an effect of medication or following an emotional upset, and the client is reported to have an elevated blood pressure. Serial readings are necessary to monitor the blood pressure until it returns to normal level.

Can low blood pressure be a sign of illness?

One single blood pressure reading does not make a diagnosis of illness. The importance of the client's baseline or "usual" blood pressure value has to be appreciated. The blood pressure and other vital signs values are used with other data from the client's subjective report and from the physical examination to identify potential health problems. When low blood pressure, hypotension, is associated with abnormal blood loss and symptoms of cool, clammy skin and weak thready pulse, the client needs medical attention.

Some aspects of the physical examination can be embarrassing for the client. What can the nurse do to prevent or minimize this response?

It is expected that the client will experience some anxieties regarding the physical examination. The nurse deals with this normal anxiety by keeping the client informed while performing the exam and by showing respect for the client's apprehension about physical exposure during the exam. A well-organized approach helps to allay the client's apprehension. At the start of the exam, the nurse examines the head, neck, ears, eyes and, during this time, develops a rapport with the client and demonstrates the gentle and respectful approach. This will be helpful when the time comes during the exam for the client to expose body parts. The nurse demonstrates a calm, organized, competent manner during the exam. The nurse may explain the reasons for certain aspects of the exam if the client seems resistant to undergoing the exam. If the client refuses to participate in part of the exam, the nurse respects the client's statement and documents the part of the exam that was not performed.