Mental Health Technician Certification (AMCA) Practice Test

Orthostatic hypotension occurs under which condition?

1. When a person experiences low blood pressure upon standing

2. When a person stays in a supine position for too long

3. When a person goes from sitting to swimming

4. When a person exercises excessively

The correct answer is: When a person experiences low blood pressure upon standing

Orthostatic hypotension specifically refers to a condition where there is a significant drop in blood pressure when a person transitions from a lying down or sitting position to standing. This drop can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, or even fainting due to inadequate blood flow to the brain as the body attempts to adjust to the new position. When a person stands up, gravity causes blood to pool in the lower extremities. In a healthy response, the body compensates by increasing heart rate and constricting blood vessels to maintain blood flow to the brain. However, in cases of orthostatic hypotension, this compensatory mechanism fails or is inadequate, resulting in low blood pressure upon standing. This important distinction highlights why the situation described is the defining characteristic of orthostatic hypotension. The other options presented do not accurately describe the condition. For instance, staying in a supine position for too long might lead to other forms of discomfort or complications but not specifically orthostatic hypotension. Transitioning from sitting to swimming involves different dynamics and does not directly cause low blood pressure related to posture. Excessive exercise might cause transient drops in blood pressure, but it doesn't tie into the specific characteristic of orthostatic hypotension, which is