In NPCDCS criteria for diagnosis of Hypertension is?

Appeared in: Maharashtra CHO - 2020

Explanation

The NPCDCS guidelines in India define hypertension as a systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 140 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of 90 mmHg or higher.
The option 'Systolic 140 to 159 and Diastolic 90 to 99' correctly describes the range for Stage 1 Hypertension.
This is the initial stage at which a formal diagnosis of hypertension is made, requiring lifestyle modifications and potentially medication.

Option B: This range (Systolic ≥160 and Diastolic ≥100) represents Stage 2 Hypertension, which is a more severe form of the condition, not the initial diagnostic criteria.
Option C: This option presents an incomplete range for Stage 1 Hypertension. The systolic range for Stage 1 extends up to 159 mmHg, not just 149 mmHg.
Option D: This range (Systolic 130-139 and Diastolic 80-89) defines Pre-hypertension or High-Normal blood pressure. It is a warning stage, not a diagnosis of hypertension.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Use the key finding related to NPCDCS criteria for Hypertension Diagnosis to guide bedside assessment, documentation, and the next nursing action.
Accurate diagnosis of hypertension is critical as it is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Early detection and management can prevent these complications.
Nurses play a key role in screening for hypertension, ensuring accurate blood pressure measurement, and educating patients on lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and stress management.
A diagnosis of hypertension is typically confirmed after two or more elevated readings on two or more separate occasions to account for variability and avoid misdiagnosis due to factors like 'white coat hypertension'.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: 'NPCDCS criteria' and 'diagnosis of Hypertension'. This indicates you need to recall the specific blood pressure values used for diagnosis under Indian national guidelines.
Recall the standard blood pressure classifications (e.g., JNC-7 or similar systems used by NPCDCS). Remember the threshold that separates 'Pre-hypertension' from 'Stage 1 Hypertension'.
The diagnosis of hypertension begins at Stage 1. The threshold for Stage 1 is a systolic pressure of 140 mmHg or a diastolic pressure of 90 mmHg.
Evaluate each option against this knowledge.
Option A (140-159 / 90-99) aligns perfectly with the definition of Stage 1 Hypertension.
Eliminate other options: Option B is Stage 2, Option D is Pre-hypertension, and Option C is an incomplete range.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full Maharashtra CHO - 2020

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.