Which vital sign indicates that Mathew Benson is experiencing hypotension?

In this scenario, the vital sign indicating that Mathew Benson is experiencing hypotension is represented by a blood pressure of 90/40 mm Hg. Hypotension is clinically defined as a blood pressure reading that is significantly lower than the normal range, which typically falls around 120/80 mm Hg for adults. A systolic blood pressure (the first number) below 90 mm Hg or a diastolic blood pressure (the second number) significantly below 60 mm Hg is often used as a diagnostic criterion for hypotension.

In this case, a reading of 90/40 mm Hg suggests inadequate perfusion pressure to vital organs, which can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or even shock if not addressed promptly. This measurement is critical because it guides intervention to stabilize the patient.

The other vital signs presented—heart rate of 124 beats per minute, respiratory rate of 26 breaths per minute, and an SpO2 of 95% on 15 L of oxygen—may indicate various degrees of stress or underlying pathology but do not directly indicate hypotension. The tachycardia (rapid heart rate) could suggest compensatory mechanisms due to low blood pressure, the elevated respiratory rate may indicate distress or hypoxia