The nurse checks on a patient who received a dose of sumatriptan (Imitrex) for treatment of a migraine headache 15 minutes ago. The patient reports moderate improvement in headache pain and reports feeling dizzy. The nurse notes a blood pressure of 160/85 mm Hg. Which action by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sumatriptan can cause transient increases in blood pressure, and the patient's blood pressure of 160/85 mm Hg is significantly elevated. The provider should be notified of this change in vital signs. Additionally, the dizziness reported by the patient should be monitored and reported to the provider as well. Administering a second dose or requesting a different form of sumatriptan should not be done without provider approval, especially given the patient's elevated blood pressure and dizziness.

The Nurse Checks on a Patient Who Received a Dose