Question

A 66-year-old with severe tearing chest pain and BP 210/110 mmHg has suspected acute aortic dissection. Which initial pharmacologic target is correct while arranging definitive imaging?

Accepted Answer

Lower HR to ~60 bpm with IV beta-blocker and reduce SBP to <120 mmHg

Answer

Start vasodilator alone to reduce SBP to <100 mmHg

Answer

Start high-dose nitroprusside alone

Answer

Avoid BP reduction until diagnosis confirmed

Answer

Start oral beta-blocker only

Practice question

A 66-year-old with severe tearing chest pain and BP 210/110 mmHg has suspected acute aortic dissection. Which initial pharmacologic target is correct while arranging definitive imaging?