What should be done if blood pressure readings exceed 139/89?

When blood pressure readings exceed 139/89, it is essential to confirm the initial reading with a second reading. This approach is aligned with clinical guidelines that emphasize the importance of accurate blood pressure measurement. Variations can occur due to a variety of factors such as stress, activity level, or equipment calibration. Taking a second measurement allows for a more reliable assessment of a person's actual blood pressure status.

Confirming with a second reading helps to determine whether the elevated reading is persistent and may indicate a diagnosis of hypertension. If the second reading also reveals elevated blood pressure, it may warrant further evaluation or treatment. This preventive step is crucial before making decisions about management, treatment, or referral to a specialist, ensuring that patients are not wrongly diagnosed or treated based on a single measurement.

This structured approach underscores the importance of systematic evaluation in clinical practice, thereby promoting accurate and evidence-based assessments of blood pressure health.