6.2 Identify the normal parameters for blood pressure

This guide will help you answer 6.2 Identify the normal parameters for blood pressure.

Blood pressure is the force of the blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps. It is measured using two figures. The first figure is the systolic pressure, which is the pressure when the heart contracts and pumps blood out. The second figure is the diastolic pressure, which is the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats. Both are measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg).

In adults, normal blood pressure is considered to be around 120/80 mmHg. The number 120 relates to systolic pressure and the number 80 relates to diastolic pressure. These figures can vary slightly for different people. Small changes are normal and depend on activity levels, health conditions, and age.

Blood Pressure Classifications

Health professionals classify blood pressure into ranges. These help to identify whether a person’s readings are within normal limits or if there is a need for closer monitoring.

Common ranges for adults are:

• Normal: Systolic less than 120 mmHg and diastolic less than 80 mmHg
• Elevated: Systolic between 120–129 mmHg and diastolic less than 80 mmHg
• High (Hypertension Stage 1): Systolic between 130–139 mmHg or diastolic between 80–89 mmHg
• High (Hypertension Stage 2): Systolic 140 mmHg or higher or diastolic 90 mmHg or higher
• Low (Hypotension): Systolic less than 90 mmHg or diastolic less than 60 mmHg

These are guidance ranges for adults. Children and young people have different parameters based on age, height and sex.

Why Normal Parameters Matter

Healthy blood pressure ensures blood flows efficiently to organs and tissues, supplying oxygen and nutrients. Very high or very low readings can cause strain on the body and may lead to health problems.

When blood pressure is high over a period of time, it increases the risk of conditions such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease. Low blood pressure can reduce the supply of oxygen to the brain and other vital organs, which can cause dizziness, fainting, or more serious problems.

Keeping within normal ranges reduces long-term risk and supports overall health.

Factors Affecting Blood Pressure Readings

Many things can influence the results of a blood pressure test. It is important to be aware of these factors so readings can be interpreted accurately.

Some common factors include:

• Physical activity soon before the test
• Emotional stress or anxiety
• Caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine consumption before testing
• Certain medications
• Dehydration
• Illness, infection, or fever
• Position of the body during measurement
• Incorrect cuff size or placement

For accurate readings, measurements should be taken after the person has been resting for several minutes, in a comfortable and quiet environment.

Age Considerations

As people get older, blood vessels can become less flexible and systolic blood pressure can increase naturally. This is why it is common to see slightly higher readings in older adults compared to younger adults.

Health professionals still use the same classification systems to flag readings that are too high or too low for any age group. Older adults may require more regular monitoring to identify changes sooner.

Measuring Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is usually measured using a digital sphygmomanometer or a manual device with a cuff, pump and stethoscope. The cuff is placed around the upper arm and inflated to temporarily stop blood flow. As the cuff deflates, the device records the pressures.

Key points for accurate measurement:

• The person should be seated comfortably with feet flat on the floor
• The arm should be supported at heart level
• The cuff should fit snugly but not be too tight
• The person should be still and silent during the reading
• Avoid taking readings over clothing

Multiple readings may be taken to check accuracy. If readings vary widely, they may be averaged to get a better picture of normal levels.

Spotting Abnormal Readings

If a reading falls outside the normal parameters, it should be checked again to confirm. Sometimes a single abnormal reading is caused by temporary factors. Continuous abnormal readings can indicate an underlying condition needing investigation.

Signs that may pair with abnormal blood pressure include:

• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Blurred vision
• Headaches
• Fainting

These symptoms should be assessed urgently. Medical professionals can carry out further checks and decide on treatment.

Recording and Reporting

Accurate recording of blood pressure is important for tracking changes. Readings are usually written as systolic over diastolic (for example, 118/76 mmHg). Times and dates should be included and any relevant observations noted, such as the person’s activity before the test.

If a reading is outside normal parameters, it should be reported promptly following workplace policies. Reports need to be clear, factual and free from personal opinion. Blood pressure trends are valuable for GPs and nurses in making decisions on care.

Blood Pressure in Different Settings

In care settings, readings might be taken regularly as part of routine checks. Some people may be monitored several times a day, especially if they are unwell or taking medication that affects blood pressure.

In community settings, healthcare workers might measure blood pressure during home visits. Portable devices make this easier and allow quick checks without a clinic appointment.

The workplace environment should promote accurate testing, meaning it should be calm and comfortable for the person being assessed.

Self-monitoring

Some people use home blood pressure monitors to track readings themselves. This can help spot changes early and aids healthcare workers in adjusting care plans.

Workers should advise on correct use, including:

• Sitting quietly before testing
• Using the correct arm position
• Recording readings in a logbook or app
• Not adjusting medication without medical advice

Home readings can sometimes be more accurate as they avoid the stress some people feel in clinical settings, known as ‘white coat syndrome’.

Lifestyle Factors Affecting Blood Pressure

Normal parameters are supported by healthy lifestyle choices. Health and social care workers can promote these to service users.

Helpful measures include:

• Eating a balanced diet with reduced salt
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular physical activity adapted to ability
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Avoiding smoking
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques
• Getting enough sleep

These steps can help keep blood pressure within normal limits and improve general health.

Medical Conditions That Affect Parameters

Certain long-term conditions can cause blood pressure to rise or fall outside normal ranges, even when a person feels well.

Examples include:

• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• Thyroid disorders
• Heart conditions
• Hormonal imbalances
• Severe infections

Some conditions need targeted treatment to manage blood pressure effectively. Workers should be aware of these links when supporting service users.

The Role of the Worker

In health and social care, the worker’s role in blood pressure management includes monitoring, recording, and reporting, but also supporting service users in understanding their readings.

Workers should:

• Take accurate measurements
• Recognise normal and abnormal ranges
• Communicate results clearly to colleagues and service users
• Follow workplace policies for abnormal results
• Encourage healthy habits

Training and regular practice improve the reliability of readings and help workers respond appropriately.

Final Thoughts

Identifying the normal parameters for blood pressure is a key skill in health and social care. It allows workers to spot potential problems early and provide information that supports diagnosis and treatment. Accurate measurement and recording can make a significant difference in someone’s health outcomes.

By knowing the normal ranges and the factors that affect them, you can carry out checks correctly and understand when numbers show cause for concern. This builds confidence for you and reassurance for those you care for. Blood pressure is a simple test, but it gives a lot of useful information when done properly.