what's the difference between ....

PennyS · Feb 23, 2013

There is no difference. They mean the same thing.

aachavez · Feb 23, 2013

Thanks. I always hate asking stupid questions like this, but it's better to know, right? Thank you!

rubato, ASN, RN · Feb 25, 2013

I know. I had the same thought last semester, didn't want to sound stupid in lecture and had to go home to look things up. Why are there so many words to mean the same thing?

nurseprnRN, BSN, RN · Feb 25, 2013

English is a rich and complex language.

You have hit upon one of my hot buttons. I used to tell my students that if their children and parents at home walked and talked, then they didn't have to say their patients ambulated and verbalized. Using "guild" language sometimes makes people feel more professional or more "in the know," but it really just makes it harder to read what they say. Simple words are fine.

Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN · Feb 25, 2013

Orthostatic hypotension — also called postural hypotension — is a form of low blood pressure that happens when you stand up from sitting or lying down. Orthostatic hypotension can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded, and maybe even faint.

Orthostatic hypotension (postural hypotension) - MayoClinic.com

The only stupid question is the one not asked....

Al.ginger · Feb 26, 2013

Hypotention is when pt. has low BP in general. It does not depend on pt. position.

Orthostatic hypotention is a drop in BP (here should be some valuse, something like drop in SBP 20mm Hg and drop in DBP 10 mm Hg) when pt. changes position: lying -sitting, sitting-standing.

Personal experience: I would have a dizzy spell when raising fast from sitting to standing position this is a orthostatic hypotention

hodgieRN · Feb 28, 2013

I had orthostatic hypotension on my 21st birthday. Damn bar stool...