Systolic Blood Pressure Goal According to JNC Guidelines
According to JNC 7 (2003), the goal for systolic blood pressure in a patient with hypertension is <140 mmHg, making answer C correct. 1, 2
JNC 7 Blood Pressure Classification and Goals
JNC 7 established clear treatment goals for hypertensive patients:
- The treatment goal for individuals with hypertension (Stages 1 and 2) and no other compelling conditions is 140/90 mmHg 1
- Stage 1 hypertension is defined as systolic BP 140-159 mmHg or diastolic 90-99 mmHg 1
- Stage 2 hypertension is defined as systolic BP ≥160 mmHg or diastolic ≥100 mmHg 1
Evolution of JNC Recommendations
JNC 8 (2014) maintained the <140/90 mmHg goal for most adults under 60 years, though it raised the threshold to <150/90 mmHg for those aged 60 and older 1, 3. However, since the question specifically asks about "JNC" without specifying JNC 8, and JNC 7 remains the most widely recognized standard, the answer is <140 mmHg (Answer C) 1, 2.
Important Context About Lower Targets
While JNC 7 recommended <140/90 mmHg as the general goal 1, it did specify lower targets for certain high-risk conditions:
- Patients with diabetes or chronic kidney disease should target <130/80 mmHg 2, 3
- This lower target was based on evidence from trials like HOT and UKPDS 1
However, for a general patient with hypertension without these compelling indications, the JNC 7 goal remains <140/90 mmHg 1.
Common Pitfall to Avoid
Do not confuse the newer 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines (which recommend <130/80 mmHg) 1 with the JNC guidelines. The question specifically asks about JNC recommendations, where <140 mmHg systolic is the established goal for general hypertensive patients 1, 2.