National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test

In a blood pressure reading, what does the first number represent?

1. Diastolic

2. Systolic

3. Mean arterial pressure

4. Pulse pressure

The correct answer is: Systolic

The first number in a blood pressure reading represents the systolic pressure, which measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood. This value indicates how much pressure is being exerted against the arterial walls during the contraction of the heart's ventricles. Systolic pressure is an essential measure because it helps assess the risk of cardiovascular issues; if this number is consistently elevated, it may indicate hypertension or other cardiovascular concerns. Monitoring this reading allows healthcare providers to determine the health of a patient's cardiovascular system and make informed decisions about necessary interventions or lifestyle modifications. The other terms listed, such as diastolic pressure, mean arterial pressure, and pulse pressure, refer to different aspects of blood pressure measurement. Diastolic pressure measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting between beats. Mean arterial pressure represents the average blood pressure in a person's arteries during one cardiac cycle. Pulse pressure is the difference between systolic and diastolic pressure. Understanding these distinctions enhances the overall comprehension of cardiovascular health and the body's functions.