Severe preeclampsia is defined by a blood pressure reading greater than what?

• A. >120/80
• B. >140/90
• C. >180/120
• D. >160/110

Answer: (D)

Severe preeclampsia is identified by markedly high blood pressure that signals greater risk to both mother and baby. The defining threshold is a systolic value of 160 mmHg or higher or a diastolic value of 110 mmHg or higher (typically confirmed on two occasions, at least four hours apart). Readings at or above this level indicate severe disease and prompt urgent evaluation and management. Lower elevations, such as 140/90, may meet criteria for preeclampsia but not its severe form, and a reading like 180/120 is unusually high and concerning but does not define the standard threshold for severe preeclampsia.