Which blood pressure values define gestational hypertension according to the protocol?

Which blood pressure values define gestational hypertension according to the protocol?

• A. Systolic >160 or Diastolic >110
• B. Systolic >120 or Diastolic >80
• C. Systolic >140 or Diastolic >90
• D. Systolic >150 or Diastolic >95

Answer: (C)

Gestational hypertension is defined in this protocol by new-onset high blood pressure after 20 weeks of gestation, using thresholds of systolic greater than 140 or diastolic greater than 90. The key point is that either value above its threshold qualifies, so any reading like 142/85 or 128/92 meets the definition. This threshold helps identify at-risk pregnancies earlier for monitoring and obstetric evaluation. Why this is the best choice: it uses the standard cut-off that captures elevated blood pressure in pregnancy without waiting for both values to be high, and it aligns with general hypertension guidelines adapted for pregnancy. The other options set higher numbers or represent normal ranges, so they would miss cases defined as gestational hypertension by this protocol. For example, a reading of 120/80 is normal, and a very high reading like 160/110 reflects a more urgent, severe scenario that requires different management.

Gestational hypertension is defined in this protocol by new-onset high blood pressure after 20 weeks of gestation, using thresholds of systolic greater than 140 or diastolic greater than 90. The key point is that either value above its threshold qualifies, so any reading like 142/85 or 128/92 meets the definition. This threshold helps identify at-risk pregnancies earlier for monitoring and obstetric evaluation.

Why this is the best choice: it uses the standard cut-off that captures elevated blood pressure in pregnancy without waiting for both values to be high, and it aligns with general hypertension guidelines adapted for pregnancy. The other options set higher numbers or represent normal ranges, so they would miss cases defined as gestational hypertension by this protocol. For example, a reading of 120/80 is normal, and a very high reading like 160/110 reflects a more urgent, severe scenario that requires different management.