In mild preeclampsia, what blood pressure reading is indicated?

Study for the USMLE Step 2 CK Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

In the context of mild preeclampsia, the definition includes specific blood pressure criteria that help healthcare providers distinguish this condition from normal pregnancy and from more severe forms of hypertension. Mild preeclampsia is characterized by elevated blood pressure readings of at least 140/90 mmHg or higher.

The reasoning behind the threshold of 140/90 mmHg lies in established clinical guidelines for the management of hypertension during pregnancy. This threshold helps in identifying patients who may require closer monitoring and potential intervention to prevent progression to severe preeclampsia, which would necessitate more aggressive management due to the risks to both the mother and the fetus.

Other readings provided in the choices do not meet the established criteria for mild preeclampsia. For example, blood pressures below 140/90 mmHg, such as 130/90 or 120/80, would be classified as normal or only mildly elevated, and do not meet the diagnostic criteria for the condition. Additionally, while higher readings like 150/100 exceed the threshold for mild preeclampsia, they indicate a more severe classification of hypertensive disorder in pregnancy and would typically suggest the need for urgent intervention. Thus, the criteria for mild preeclampsia

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy