What vital sign reading would classify a patient as experiencing hypertension during pregnancy?

The classification of hypertension during pregnancy is primarily based on blood pressure readings. In pregnancy, hypertension is defined as having blood pressure readings at or above 140/90 mm Hg.

The reading of 140/90 mm Hg matches the diagnostic criteria for hypertension. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and consists of two numbers: systolic pressure (the first number) and diastolic pressure (the second number). A systolic reading of 140 or higher, or a diastolic reading of 90 or higher, indicates that a patient is considered to have hypertension, which can pose risks to both the mother and fetus.

Higher readings, such as 150/95 mm Hg or 160/100 mm Hg, also indicate hypertension but are not the lowest threshold for diagnosis. Meanwhile, a reading of 120/80 mm Hg is considered normal for adults and does not indicate hypertension. The focus on these thresholds is important for timely intervention and management of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy to improve outcomes for both mother and child.