How would a nurse classify a client with blood pressure readings of 130/82 mm Hg, 136/84 mm Hg, and 128/88 mm Hg?

In the context of blood pressure classification, the readings provided fall into the category of prehypertension, which is typically defined as having systolic blood pressure readings between 120-139 mm Hg and diastolic readings between 80-89 mm Hg.

The values given—130/82 mm Hg, 136/84 mm Hg, and 128/88 mm Hg—show systolic pressure consistently in the range that may suggest potential health risks associated with higher blood pressure. Specifically, while the diastolic readings fluctuate just above and below the threshold (80-89 mm Hg), the systolic measurements land consistently within the lower end of stage 1 hypertension. However, given that the classification considers the overall profile and trends, prehypertension serves as an indication of increased risk before reaching full hypertension.

These readings, taken together, suggest that while the patient is not yet in the stage 1 range for systolic pressure (which starts at 140), they are indeed at a point where monitoring and lifestyle adjustments should be considered to prevent progression to higher stages of hypertension. Hence, classifying the client as being in the prehypertension category is appropriate based on normal guidelines for blood pressure readings.