If a patient has a blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg, what is the systolic pressure?

Master the HOSA Medical Math Assessment Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you excel. Achieve your certification!

Systolic pressure is the higher number in a blood pressure reading, which represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood. In the given blood pressure measurement of 120/80 mmHg, the systolic pressure is identified as 120 mmHg. This number indicates the peak pressure exerted by the heart during contraction. Understanding this distinction between systolic and diastolic pressure (the lower number, which in this case is 80 mmHg) is crucial for accurately interpreting blood pressure readings and assessing cardiovascular health. The importance of identifying systolic pressure lies in its role in diagnosing and managing conditions related to hypertension and overall heart function.

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