What is the recommended blood pressure threshold for diagnosing gestational hypertension?

The recommended blood pressure threshold for diagnosing gestational hypertension is 140/90 mmHg. This threshold is established by guidelines from reputable organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), which define gestational hypertension as new-onset hypertension occurring after 20 weeks of gestation.

This specific threshold highlights the importance of identifying elevated blood pressure in pregnancy, as timely diagnosis can lead to appropriate management and monitoring, reducing the risk of complications for both the mother and the fetus. Maintaining blood pressure below this level helps to distinguish between normal physiological changes in pregnancy and more serious hypertensive disorders such as preeclampsia. Understanding this critical threshold is essential for nursing practice in the management of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.