Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Simulated
A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about orthostatic hypotension. Which of the following information should the nurse include?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Orthostatic hypotension increases a client's risk of a fall. When a person experiences orthostatic hypotension, their blood pressure drops when moving from lying down to standing up, leading to dizziness and potential falls. This is a common complication in the elderly and can result in serious injuries.
Choice B is incorrect because orthostatic hypotension is typically indicated by a decrease in systolic blood pressure of at least 20 mm Hg, not 10 mm Hg. Choice C is incorrect as orthostatic hypotension does not directly increase the risk of a pulmonary embolism. Choice D is incorrect because orthostatic hypotension is primarily indicated by a decrease in systolic blood pressure, not diastolic.
Choice B is incorrect because orthostatic hypotension is typically indicated by a decrease in systolic blood pressure of at least 20 mm Hg, not 10 mm Hg. Choice C is incorrect as orthostatic hypotension does not directly increase the risk of a pulmonary embolism. Choice D is incorrect because orthostatic hypotension is primarily indicated by a decrease in systolic blood pressure, not diastolic.