Which of the following best describes the relationship between peripheral vascular resistance and blood pressure?

The relationship between peripheral vascular resistance and blood pressure is best described as proportional. This means that as peripheral vascular resistance increases, blood pressure tends to increase as well, assuming that cardiac output remains constant.

Peripheral vascular resistance refers to the resistance that blood encounters as it flows through the blood vessels, primarily influenced by the diameter of the blood vessels. When the blood vessels constrict, or their diameter decreases, resistance increases, leading to an increase in blood pressure. Conversely, if the blood vessels dilate and resistance decreases, blood pressure typically falls. This association is a fundamental principle in cardiovascular physiology, reinforcing the idea that blood flow, blood pressure, and resistance are interconnected.

The other options do not accurately capture this direct relationship. Factors that are independent would not show a consistent linkage, while a negative correlation implies that as one factor increases, the other decreases, which is contrary to how peripheral resistance impacts blood pressure. Understanding this proportional relationship is essential for EMTs and healthcare providers when assessing and managing cardiovascular health.