NREMT Paramedic Practice

Which symptom is associated with elevated extremity hypertension?

1. Low heart rate

2. Normal blood pressure

3. Lower femoral pulses

4. Rapid breathing

The correct answer is: Lower femoral pulses

Elevated extremity hypertension is characterized by significantly increased blood pressure readings in the arms or legs, which can reflect underlying circulatory issues or vascular conditions. A key symptom associated with this condition is diminished or absent femoral pulses. This occurs because the elevated pressure in the extremities can disrupt normal blood flow, potentially leading to decreased perfusion to more central arteries like the femoral artery. Poorly perfused areas may not produce strong pulses, making it difficult to palpate the femoral pulse. This contrasts with other symptoms such as low heart rate, normal blood pressure, or rapid breathing, which do not directly correlate with elevated extremity hypertension in the same way. Understanding this relationship helps in assessing vascular health and identifying conditions such as coarctation of the aorta, where this symptom is particularly relevant.