Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam

Which condition is characterized by abnormally low blood pressure?

1. Hypertension

2. Hypotension

3. Hyperemia

4. Ischemia

The correct answer is: Hypotension

Hypotension is the condition characterized by abnormally low blood pressure. Blood pressure is measured with two values: systolic and diastolic pressure; hypotension refers specifically to a situation where these values drop below the normal range, typically below 90/60 mmHg. Low blood pressure can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, and fatigue due to insufficient blood flow to the organs. Hypertension, on the other hand, refers to high blood pressure, which is the opposite condition of hypotension. Hyperemia involves an increase in blood flow to a certain area of the body, often resulting in redness and warmth in the affected tissue. Ischemia refers to inadequate blood supply to a part of the body, which can cause tissue damage and is associated with conditions like heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, 'hypotension' is the precise term for low blood pressure, distinguishing it clearly from the other conditions listed.