Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is the normal range for an ABI score?

1. 0.1 to 0.5

2. 1.0 to 1.4

3. 0.5 to 0.9

4. 1.5 to 2.0

The correct answer is: 1.0 to 1.4

The normal range for an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) score is 1.0 to 1.4. This index is used to assess blood flow and is calculated by measuring blood pressure in the ankle and comparing it to blood pressure in the arm. A score within this range indicates normal blood flow and suggests that there is no significant arterial disease present. Scores below 1.0 can indicate varying degrees of arterial obstruction (with values between 0.5 and 0.9 suggesting mild to moderate peripheral artery disease), while values above 1.4 can indicate potential vascular issues such as stiff arteries or calcification, making the normal range essential for identifying healthy vascular function. Understanding the ABI scoring helps in determining the risk for peripheral artery disease and guiding appropriate management and treatment plans for patients.