In which class of hypertension does a blood pressure of 138/90 fall according to JNC 7 recommendations?

A blood pressure reading of 138/90 mmHg is classified as Stage 1 hypertension according to the JNC 7 recommendations. In this classification system, blood pressure is divided into several categories based on systolic and diastolic values.

Stage 1 hypertension is defined as having a systolic blood pressure ranging from 140 to 159 mmHg or a diastolic pressure from 90 to 99 mmHg. Since the provided reading of 138/90 mmHg has a diastolic value within the range for Stage 1 but a systolic value below the threshold for that stage, it confirms the classification as Stage 1 hypertension.

Understanding this category is crucial for appropriate management and treatment, as Stage 1 hypertension often involves lifestyle modifications and may require medication based on individual patient risk factors. The other categories, such as Stage 2, reflect higher blood pressure readings that necessitate more aggressive treatment approaches. Thus, recognizing a reading of 138/90 mmHg falls into Stage 1 reinforces the importance of identifying blood pressure classifications for effective hypertension management.