FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

What condition is suggested by a blood pressure reading of 142/92 in a 28-week pregnant woman with no complications?

1. Gestational hypertension

2. Pre-eclampsia

3. Chronic hypertension

4. Normal pregnancy changes

The correct answer is: Gestational hypertension

A blood pressure reading of 142/92 in a 28-week pregnant woman suggests gestational hypertension because this condition is characterized by new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks of gestation in women who were normotensive prior to pregnancy. It is defined specifically by systolic blood pressure readings of 140 mmHg or higher, or diastolic readings of 90 mmHg or higher, in the absence of proteinuria or other signs of pre-eclampsia. Given that the reading falls within this range and there are no reported complications or accompanying signs of pre-eclampsia, such as proteinuria or organ dysfunction, it's indicative of gestational hypertension. Monitoring is essential as it can progress to more severe conditions, but in this scenario, the existence of elevated blood pressure alone, without other symptoms, aligns clearly with gestational hypertension, making it the correct interpretation of the situation.