JNC 7 Category
Classification
SBP
DBP
Referral Protocol
Form
Normal
Normal
<120
<80
Prehypertension
Prehypertension
120-139
80-89
90-99
Recommend client get a repeat BP w/in 2
months, and follow-up with their health care
provider if it remains high.
1
1
1
Hypertension ≥ 140/90
Stage 1
High blood pressure
140-159
Stage 2
Very high blood pressure
≥160
≥100
Recommend client get a repeat blood
pressure within 1 month and follow-up with
their health care provider if it remains high.
Stage 2 (Asymptomatic)
Dangerously high blood pressure
≥180
≥100
Recommend follow-up with their health care
provider within 1 week.
Stage 2 (Symptomatic)
Dangerously high blood pressure
≥180
≥100
Recommend IMMEDIATE FOLLOW-UP at the
EMERGENCY ROOM if client has symptoms
such as shortness of breath, altered mental
status, dizziness, blurred vision, or headache.
Advise client not to drive him/herself.
2