There are five blood pressure ranges recognized by the American Heart Association: normal, elevated, Hypertension Stage 1, Hypertenion Stage 2, and Hypertensive Crisis. These ranges are further divided into systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure, read as systolic over diastolic (Ex: 120/80). It is expected that nurses have a strong working knowledge of the most commonly tested labs, normal lab value ranges, and their implications. Please note: the normal range of lab values may differ by location, altitude, age, gender, etc.
Download a printable copy of the Guide to Blood Pressure Ranges
This resource is a vital concept for all nurses and may accompany any of our continuing education courses. View the general class catalog here.
Guide to Blood Pressure Ranges