Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What term is used to describe a blood pressure that is lower than normal?

1. Hypertension

2. Hypotension

3. Normotension

4. Hyperextension

The correct answer is: Hypotension

The term used to describe blood pressure that is lower than normal is hypotension. This condition indicates that the pressure in the arteries during the beating of the heart (systolic) and between heartbeats (diastolic) is below the typical range. Hypotension can lead to various symptoms, such as dizziness, fainting, and fatigue, as it suggests that the organs and tissues may not be receiving an adequate blood supply. Hypertension refers to high blood pressure, which is not applicable in this context. Normotension is simply a term used to define normal blood pressure levels and does not address low blood pressure. Hyperextension, typically related to an exaggerated movement in a joint, does not pertain to blood pressure at all.