National League for Nursing (NLN PAX) Practice Exam

The measurement of blood pressure is expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and consists of two numbers: systolic (the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart beats) over diastolic (the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart rests between beats). A normal blood pressure reading for a resting adult is typically around 120/80 mmHg.

This standard value indicates that the systolic pressure is within the optimal range, while the diastolic pressure is also at a healthy level. These figures are widely accepted in clinical guidelines and represent a baseline for evaluating an individual's cardiovascular health. The importance of recognizing these numbers lies in their role in assessing the risk for conditions such as hypertension and heart disease.

While other readings may still fall within the acceptable range or be marginally elevated, they do not replicate the ideal 120/80 mmHg standard that is typically highlighted in medical literature for resting adults.