1. What is the Blood Pressure Percentile Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines a child's blood pressure percentile based on age, height, sex, and blood pressure measurements according to AAP 2017 guidelines.

Purpose: It helps pediatric healthcare providers assess whether a child's blood pressure is normal, elevated, or indicative of hypertension.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the AAP 2017 Clinical Practice Guideline tables to:

• Determine height percentile for age and sex
• Compare systolic and diastolic BP to normative data
• Calculate BP percentiles based on age, height, and sex

3. Importance of BP Percentile Calculation

Details: Proper BP assessment in children requires percentiles rather than absolute values, as normal BP varies with growth and development.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the child's exact age in years, height in cm, sex, and both systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What do the percentiles mean?
A: <90% = normal; 90-95% = elevated; ≥95% = hypertension (confirmed on 3 occasions)

Q2: What age range does this cover?
A: 1-17 years (different tables for infants under 1 year)

Q3: How accurate is this calculator?
A: Based on AAP normative data, but clinical judgment should always be used

Q4: Why does height matter in BP percentiles?
A: Taller children typically have higher normal BP values than shorter peers of the same age

Q5: Where can I find the official AAP tables?
A: In the AAP 2017 Clinical Practice Guideline or at pediatrics.org/cgi/doi/10.1542/peds.2017-1904