Which blood pressure reading should the caregiver recheck?

• A. 120/80
• B. 130/90
• C. 110/70
• D. 140/95

Answer: (B)

When a blood pressure reading is higher than normal, you recheck to confirm whether it’s a real elevation or just a momentary error from technique, cuff fit, or recent activity. The reading that sits above normal but not in a danger zone is the one to recheck first, because it needs verification before labeling someone as hypertensive or taking further action.

To recheck, have the person rest briefly and sit with their back supported, feet uncrossed and flat, and the arm supported at heart level. Use a properly sized cuff on the bare upper arm and avoid talking during the measurement. Take one reading, wait a short moment, then take a second reading on the same arm. If the two readings aren’t close, take a third and use the average of the last two. If repeated measurements remain higher than normal, advise contacting a healthcare provider for further evaluation.