In diagnosing preeclampsia, blood pressure is measured twice, 4 hours apart after 20 weeks gestation in individuals with no prior history of hypertension. What threshold is used to indicate preeclampsia?

• A. 120/80 mmHg
• B. 130/85 mmHg
• C. Over 140/90 mmHg
• D. 160/100 mmHg

Answer: (C)

Preeclampsia is diagnosed when a pregnant person after 20 weeks with no prior hypertension develops new hypertension, confirmed by two elevated readings at least 4 hours apart. The threshold used is systolic at least 140 or diastolic at least 90 mmHg. If two measurements meet or exceed this level, hypertension in pregnancy is established, and the diagnosis of preeclampsia is considered when accompanied by proteinuria or other organ signs. The option 140/90+ matches this criterion. Lower values like 120/80 or 130/85 are normal ranges and don’t indicate hypertension, while a reading like 160/100 reflects severe-range hypertension that signals more urgent management, not the basic diagnostic threshold.