American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is the recommended systolic blood pressure target for patients with hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage?

1. 120 mm Hg

2. 130 mm Hg

3. 140 mm Hg

4. 150 mm Hg

The correct answer is: 140 mm Hg

The recommended systolic blood pressure target for patients with hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage is 140 mm Hg. This target is based on clinical guidelines and emerging evidence that suggests maintaining systolic blood pressure at or below this level can help reduce the risk of rebleeding and improve overall outcomes. In managing patients with acute hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage, there is a delicate balance between controlling blood pressure to minimize complications and ensuring that blood pressure does not drop too low, which could compromise cerebral perfusion. The target of 140 mm Hg is considered optimal as it aims to lower the risk of further hemorrhage while also ensuring adequate blood flow to the brain. Adhering to this target also aligns with recommendations from various stroke management guidelines, which advocate for a cautious approach to blood pressure management in this patient population.