What is the normal mean arterial pressure (MAP) range, and what MAP is generally targeted in critically ill patients to ensure organ perfusion?

• A. Normal MAP about 60-90 mmHg; target ≥60 mmHg
• B. Normal MAP about 70-105 mmHg; target ≥65 mmHg
• C. Normal MAP about 90-120 mmHg; target ≥75 mmHg
• D. Normal MAP about 50-70 mmHg; target ≥60 mmHg

Answer: (B)

MAP is the average pressure in the arteries and is the main driver of blood flow to organs. In healthy people, MAP typically sits around 70-105 mmHg. In critically ill patients, the goal is to keep MAP at least about 65 mmHg to ensure adequate perfusion of vital organs like the brain and kidneys, since autoregulation can fail when pressures drop, especially during shock or vasodilation. Some patients with chronic high blood pressure may need higher targets, but the general resuscitation benchmark is ≥65 mmHg. Other options either give an incorrect normal range or propose a target that's too low or too high for reliable organ perfusion.