Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

What is a major factor contributing to postural hypotension with orthostatic symptoms?

1. Sclerosis of atrial and mitral valves

2. Rigidity of the left ventricle

3. Baroreceptor function is impaired

4. Cardiac reserve declines

The correct answer is: Baroreceptor function is impaired

A major factor contributing to postural hypotension with orthostatic symptoms is the impairment of baroreceptor function. Baroreceptors are sensors located in the blood vessels that play a crucial role in the regulation of blood pressure by detecting changes in arterial pressure and initiating reflexive adjustments in heart rate and vascular tone. When a person changes position, such as moving from sitting to standing, gravity causes blood to pool in the lower extremities. Baroreceptors quickly sense the decrease in blood pressure that occurs with this positional change and signal the cardiovascular center in the brain to initiate compensatory mechanisms, such as increasing heart rate and constricting blood vessels, to maintain adequate blood flow to the brain. If baroreceptor function is impaired, this reflex response is weakened or delayed. Consequently, the body fails to adequately compensate for the drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or even fainting, which are characteristic of orthostatic hypotension. This disruption can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as aging, certain medications, or underlying health conditions, which can lead to reduced sensitivity and responsiveness of the baroreceptors. Understanding the role of baroreceptors in managing blood pressure is essential