07.01.2021 - By Zack Olson, MD and Michael Estephan, MD
CAUTION: THESE NOTES CONTAIN SPOILERS!!
Case Introduction
You are working a shift at EM Clerkship General when you are handed the next chart, a 60 year old male presenting with high blood pressure.
Initial Vitals
* Temp 98.0F* HR 90* RR 18* BP 220/120* O2 98%
Critical Actions
* Perform thorough neurological exam (and find papilledema)* Diagnose Hypertensive Emergency* Start anti-hypertensive drip (usually Nicardipene)* Recheck patient’s blood pressure after intervention* Admit to ICU
Further Reading
Hypertensive Emergency (EMCrit)