Taking blood pressure readings while the older person is lying, sitting, and standing
a. Is unnecessary, unless the older person complains of chest pain
b. Can assist in identifying orthostatic hypotension
c. Is usually done only with a physician's order
d. Can identify the cause of increased heart rate when the older person changes positions
B
A greater than 20 mm Hg decrease in systolic blood pressure when an older person changes positions is referred to as orthostatic hypotension. This decrease in blood pressure can be related to dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, unsteadiness, and falls. These blood pressure readings can be done without a physician's order and are unrelated to complaints of chest pain. It is normal for the heart rate to increase when changing positions. It is the body's natural response to maintain blood pressure with positional changes.
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