Wisconsin CNA State Exam Vocabulary Practice

What could make you feel dizzy or lightheaded when standing up from a sitting or lying position?

1. Postural hypotension

2. Postural supports

3. Pressure ulcer

4. Preventing falls

The correct answer is: Postural hypotension

Postural hypotension, also known as orthostatic hypotension, refers to a significant drop in blood pressure when a person transitions from a sitting or lying position to standing. This drop in blood pressure can lead to inadequate blood flow to the brain, resulting in feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness. This condition is particularly important for individuals, such as the elderly or those taking certain medications, who may be more susceptible to these changes in blood pressure. Recognizing the signs of postural hypotension is crucial in providing safe and effective care, as it indicates a need for careful monitoring and possible intervention to prevent falls or injury. Other options relate to supportive measures or conditions that are not directly linked to the physiological response of blood pressure changes during movement. For instance, postural supports focus on physical aids for stability, while pressure ulcers pertain to skin integrity and preventing falls is about safety and risk management rather than directly explaining the dizziness experienced during positional changes.