The 7th Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of Highīlood Pressure (JNC 7) provides a scheme for classifying blood pressure for adults (≥ 18 years of age) and defines hypertension as beginning at systolic and diastolic pressures of 140/90 mm Hg, respectively. The measurement of blood pressure gives the therapist information regarding the patient's baseline cardiovascular status, response to exercise/activity, and guides exercise prescription. 2 Blood pressure screening should occur every two years in people with blood pressures less than 120/80 mm Hg, and every year for people with systolic blood pressure 120 mm Hg to 139 mm Hg, or diastolic blood pressure 80 mm Hg to 89 mm Hg. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for high blood pressure in adults 18 years of age and older. BLOOD PRESSURE MEASUREMENT GUIDELINES FOR PHYSICAL THERAPISTSĪs stated in the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice, assessment and monitoring of vital signs are important components of the review of systems in a physical therapy examination for individuals with and without documented cardiopulmonary disease.
