A 35-year-old male is complaining of a headache, blurred vision, nausea, and vomiting. He has a history of hypertension but is noncompliant with his medications. His pupils are equal and reactive, his skin is warm and dry, and his breath sounds are clear and equal bilaterally. HR = 122, BP = 202/138, RR = 12, SaO₂ = 99%. In addition to monitoring his cardiac rhythm, administering oxygen, and starting an IV at a KVO rate, which of the following is most appropriate?

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The patient is presenting with symptoms of a hypertensive emergency, with a BP of 202/138 and a headache, blurred vision, nausea, and vomiting. Labetalol, a non-selective beta blocker with alpha-blocking activity, is the preferred agent for the management of hypertensive emergencies. It can be given as an initial bolus of 20 mg IV over 2 minutes, followed by an infusion if needed to continue blood pressure control. Diazepam is not indicated for the management of hypertension and may further lower blood pressure. Nitroglycerin is contraindicated in this patient as it can cause further hypotension. Morphine may be used for pain management but should be avoided in patients with hypertension as it can cause vasodilation and further increase blood pressure.

A 35-Year-Old Male Is Complaining of a Headache, Blurred Vision