What is the normal blood pressure reading for an adult?

Study for the NHA Medical Assistant Certification Exam. Enhance your preparation with our flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

The normal blood pressure reading for an adult is considered to be around 120/80 mmHg. This is recognized as the standard threshold, where the first number, systolic pressure, refers to the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, and the second number, diastolic pressure, indicates the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.

A reading of 110/70 mmHg, while also indicative of relatively healthy blood pressure, is still lower than the standard normal reading but does fall within an acceptable range for many individuals, especially if they are younger or more athletic.

In contrast, readings such as 130/90 or 140/95 would typically be classified as elevated or even high blood pressure, depending on other risk factors and overall health. These higher readings often prompt concern regarding cardiovascular health and necessitate a discussion with a healthcare provider to explore lifestyle changes or medication. Therefore, while option B can be considered a normal reading, it is essential to understand it in the context of the broader understanding of blood pressure standards.

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