Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA) Practice Exam

After one month, to what level of mercury (Hg) should the bladder be inflated when measuring a client's blood pressure again?

1. 130 mm

2. 150 mm

3. 170 mm

4. 200 mm

The correct answer is: 150 mm

When measuring blood pressure with a sphygmomanometer, it is important to inflate the cuff to a level that is sufficiently above the expected systolic blood pressure of the client. This ensures that the measurement will capture the true systolic pressure accurately without causing discomfort or risking injury. Inflating the cuff to around 150 mm Hg is generally considered appropriate for most individuals, as it typically exceeds the expected systolic blood pressure for many adults. This ensures that the brachial artery is completely occluded, allowing for a clearer detection of the systolic and diastolic pressures when the cuff is gradually deflated. The other options of 130 mm, 170 mm, and 200 mm Hg may not be ideal for different reasons. A lower level like 130 mm may not adequately occlude the artery, potentially resulting in an inaccurate reading. On the other hand, levels like 170 mm or 200 mm are unnecessarily high for initial inflation in most cases and could cause discomfort or risk complications. Therefore, inflating to 150 mm Hg strikes a balance between effective occlusion and patient comfort, making it the recommended choice.